“We strongly encourage anyone who has information or knowledge of this incident, including the events, movements or items involved, to contact us if they have not yet done so.”
As part of their inquiries, police have identified that a semi-automatic shotgun should have been at the Murumuru Rd address, but this was not found during the initial scene examination or in subsequent searches.
Investigators believe the firearm may have been modified, with the end of the barrel cut down.
Police are still completing a search at the property.
“We want to reassure the community that this investigation is ongoing and remains active.
“The co-operation shown by the community has been invaluable during our investigation, and we thank them for their support.
“We continue to follow all lines of inquiry and carefully assess information as it is received. We are committed to ensuring the safety of the wider community and, at this stage, there is no information to suggest any ongoing risk to the general public.”
The arrested man appeared in Whanganui District Court today charged with two counts of murder.
He was granted interim name suppression and was remanded in custody until his next appearance on May 22.
Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 251213/6207 or Operation Murumuru.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
