Kawerau assault update

Police inquiries into yesterday's cowardly assault of an elderly Kawerau woman are continuing.

The 71-year-old is in a stable condition in hospital following the attack at her River Rd home early yesterday (Saturday 29 January). The attack happened as she opened her door to a man about 1am, after mistaking him for a male relative she had been expecting to arrive late from overseas. The man demanded cash before attacking the woman, leaving her bloodied on the floor of her home, before stealing her car. No cash was taken.

Detective Inspector Tim Anderson, Bay of Plenty District Manager Criminal Investigations, said some information had come in overnight that Police would be following up today. Forensic examinations of the woman's car and home were also continuing.

"We'd still like to hear from anyone who may have seen anything or anyone acting suspiciously in the River Road area, in Kawerau at about 1am yesterday or on Friday the 28th of January.

"This was a cowardly, callous attack on a defenceless elderly woman who could've been your mother or grandmother, and Police want to catch the person responsible as quickly as possible. Police encourage anyone in the local community with information that may help us to catch this offender to contact us immediately, no matter how unimportant it may seem.”

Mr Anderson said the victim was recovering from a fractured cheekbone and jaw.

"She is a remarkably positive and strong-minded woman, who is bearing up very well despite what was a serious assault."

Anyone with information can contact Kawerau Police, ph 07 323 1400, or Whakatane police, ph 07 308 5255. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via the free Crimestoppers phone line, ph 0800 111 555.

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ENDS

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