National News Release, 22:08, 26 February 2003
Police tonight released a copy of the terrorist threat letter intercepted on its way to three diplomatic missions late
last week.
The text of the letter had been broadcast on international media.
Assistant Commissioner Jon White said that for investigative and evidential purposes Police had preferred that the
letter not be published but now that had been taken out of the Police’s hands it was no longer possible to with-hold the
letter from general release.
Letter posted to the American Embassy
Click on image for enlargement.
Envelope posted to the American Embassy
Click on image for enlargement.
Envelope posted to the British High Commission
Click on image for enlargement.
Envelope posted to the Australian High Commission
Click on image for enlargement
"I hope that an upside from this unofficial release will be that someone in New Zealand will recognise aspects of the
letter and provide us with key information that might identify who was responsible.
"Mr White said that Police have put a copy of the letter on www.police.govt.nz and set up an 0800THREAT number. People
should ring if they have any information that may help the inquiry.
"The amount of cyanide in one of the letters was very small. The threat suggests that the author of the letter has more
cyanide. Police are keeping an open mind as to the intent of the author."
Mr White restated his advice that people should take reasonable care but continue to go about their normal activities.
Public contacts:
0800THREAT or 0800 847328
http://www.police.govt.nz
Further media inquiries:
(026) 101082