The police officer in charge of the hunt for Paul Kumeroa's killers believes members of the public can help but have not come forward. Acting detective sergeant Kevin Antsis wants those who may have valuable information to think about the consequences of staying silent. "We know people out there are withholding information,and they need to think long and hard about the fact that Paul Kumeroa died a violent death and that shouldn't happen in a place like New Zealand." Mr Kumeroa was bashed while walking home along Cross St, Castlecliff, about 9.30pm on September 23. He died shortly after in Wanganui Hospital after succumbing to head injuries. The family man, originally from Jerusalem, left behind a partner of 11 years and an 18-month-old son. Mr Antsis would not comment on how many people were believed to have been involved in the attack, but said the police were still hoping to hear from people who had sighted a silver Mitsubishi Galant on the night Mr Kumeroa was attacked. The occupants of the car are believed to have driven around Wanganui, and were involved in several disorderly incidents throughout the night. Police believe they may have also attended parties, and want to hear from anyone who hosted one that evening. The Galant was found burnt out and abandoned on the North Mole in Castlecliff the morning after Mr Kumeroa was attacked. Mr Antsis said a team of 12 officers was still working on "Operation Cross", which was "progressing really well". Posters (picured) requesting information had proved useful, but he said there were still people out there who needed to come forward. "We're getting plenty of information but, from what we're piecing together, there are some people that are not giving us information that they know about." Anyone with information that could assist the police can confidentially phone Operation Cross on 0800 CROSSS.
