Attribute to Detective Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua, Counties Manukau District Crime Manager:
A homicide investigation is underway following the discovery of human remains in Manurewa yesterday afternoon.
Police were alerted to the discovery on Moncrieff Avenue around 1.30pm on Thursday 11 August, after the occupants brought unowned property to their address.
A number of Police staff have been working at the address overnight, including the Specialist Search Group.
From our enquiries so far, we can advise the occupants of the address are not believed to be involved in the incident.
Police acknowledge them for their assistance so far and we are providing support for them. Police would also ask the media to respect their privacy at this difficult time.
We appreciate there is significant public interest in what has occurred, however given the nature of the discovery, there are still a number of enquiries to be carried out.
Our enquiries are continuing today, which includes an ongoing scene examination, and the local community will see an increased Police presence in the area over the next few days.
A post-mortem examination is underway and this is expected to be competed over the coming days.
The priority for Police is to confirm the identification of the deceased so that we can establish the full circumstances behind the discovery.
This will also lead to the advising of next of kin.
Given the nature of the discovery, this might take some time.
Police reiterate there is no immediate risk to the public in regards to this incident.
Police will be providing further updates as our investigation allows, however we can reassure the public our enquiry team are taking this matter extremely seriously and will investigate the matter thoroughly.
ENDS.
Anna Thompson/NZ Police