Two have Pania theft charges withdrawn

Two of the three people accused of the theft of Napier's iconic Pania of the Reef statue are to have the charges dropped.

Police said Che Te Kooti Dion Rogan, 27, and Shiralee Valerie Rogan, 26, would have the theft charges withdrawn when they reappeared in Napier District Court tomorrow.

"They will face receiving stolen property charges," Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Foster said.

The theft charge against the third accused Charles Nukunuku, 25, stands.

The trio are on bail pending their return to court tomorrow.

The bronze statue was stolen from Marine Parade on Napier's waterfront on October 27 and found almost undamaged on November 4.

- NZPA