Ngā mihi and well done to all staff involved in the Operation Portland investigation into the murder of Napier woman Victoria Foster in her home in October 2015. A man pleaded guilty to this and other charges last week, a result that will bring some closure to Victoria’s family.
This was a multi-faceted operation that involved an Armed Offenders Squad response to apprehend the offender, followed by a thorough investigation and preparation for prosecution.
Police staff in Hawke’s Bay also did a great job of looking after Victoria’s family, and the guilty plea spares them the trauma of a trial.
Well done, too, to the team investigating the alleged hit-and-run of Auckland boy Jacob Pakura. The arrest of a suspect this week will be a relief to Jacob’s family. I’d also like to acknowledge the members of the public who came forward with information.
District visits
This week I’ve been in the Waitematā, Auckland City and Northland Districts, where I saw some of the great work our staff are doing on a daily basis. This included meeting with the team investigating Jacob’s death and visiting the Special Tactics Group base in Auckland.
I also met with some of the team searching for missing Torbay woman Pat Wearn. They’re working hard to find her and to support her family during this difficult time.
I also visited the Warkworth, Kawakawa and Paihia stations and I’m hoping to get to Russell today.
I always enjoy these opportunities to meet staff and catch up with what’s going on in their areas, and I’m planning to get around as much as possible again this year.
Until then, stay safe and keep up the great work.
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