Police Following Strong Leads After Woman's Death in Ngāruawāhia, Waikato
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Loading... - Regina Aguirre
- 06 Jan 2025
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Police in Waikato are actively pursuing leads in the homicide investigation of Turipapa Tukere, a 42-year-old woman who died on December 27 after being taken to an ambulance station in Ngāruawāhia in critical condition. The investigation was launched following her death, which authorities believe is connected to a nearby brawl that occurred shortly before she was transported.
Acting Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders stated that police have been engaging with multiple individuals to piece together the events leading up to Tukere's death. "Evidence has also been collected from various scenes across Ngāruawāhia, which will be analysed by ESR (Environmental Science and Research). Police hope this analysis will identify the person and/or people involved," he said.
On New Year's Eve, police were granted a Gang Conflict Warrant, which provides them with enhanced powers for searches and arrests in connection with the incidents surrounding Tukere's death. This warrant is in effect until January 7, when its necessity will be reviewed. Saunders noted that the warrant has allowed police to seize weapons and has contributed to a de-escalation of gang tensions in the area.
Police are urging anyone with information regarding Turipapa Tukere's death to come forward. "We have obtained information during the execution of these warrants that may be relevant to the homicide, and this information is currently being reviewed by the investigation team," Saunders added.
Members of the public can contact police by calling 105 and quoting the file number 241227/6958, or they can report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
The Gang Conflict Warrant, which grants police additional powers, was first introduced in April 2023 and has been utilized in a limited number of cases during periods of heightened gang activity. Previous uses of the warrant occurred in areas such as Ōpōtiki and Whakatāne following a series of shootings in October 2023, and in Wairoa after conflicts in September.
As the investigation continues, police remain committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding Turipapa Tukere's death and ensuring justice is served.
