MEDIA RELEASE

Operation Porridge - Missing Children Found

WHANGAREI Police continue their inquiries into a domestic incident that occurred in the eastern suburb of Onerahi at WHANGAREI at approximately 10.30 p.m. on Sunday the 4th November 2007.

During the incident, a physical altercation took place between the male offender and two female victims at the address. After the altercation, the offender has left the address in a white 1991 Nissan Pulsar hatch-back registered number: YW3322 taking with him, two infant children aged 3 years and 18 months.

At about 10.30 p.m. on Monday the 5th November 2007, WHANGAREI Police recovered the vehicle abandoned in the suburb of Onerahi at WHANGAREI. The vehicle has been seized by the WHANGAREI Police for examination.

Later in the evening, at about 11.30 p.m. WHANGAREI Police entered an Onerahi address under the emergency search powers of the Children, Young Persons and Their Families Act 1989.

As a result, Police located the two infant children being sought in relation to this matter. Both children were sleeping and found fit and well. They have been re-united with their mother. A 45 year old male at the address was spoken to and is assisting Police with their inquiries.

WHANGAREI Police are still seeking the 54 year old father of the children in connection with the incident and advise that he should not be approached by members of the public.

Any person knowing the whereabouts of James TOBY, of WHANGAREI is asked to contact their nearest Police Station or the Officer in Charge of the case, Detective Kelly PENNEY of the WHANGAREI Police.

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