Far North Police are being met with a wall of silence nearly two months on from a fatal hit and run.
An investigation team has been working to investigate the sequence of events leading up to Jahkani Hamilton suffering fatal injuries, near Kaikohe, on 5 May.
The 18-year-old was found deceased on Ngapipito Road at around 11.10pm, after being knocked off a dirt bike.
An associate of Jahkani was found in the nearby area with serious injuries after also being knocked off a dirt bike.
Operation Concert commenced in the immediate aftermath of the events of that Tuesday night.
“We have a dedicated team of investigators continuing to work on this case,” Detective Senior Sergeant Christan Fouhy, Far North Area Investigations Manager, says.
“However, our investigation is being hindered.
“Witnesses and their supporters are choosing to say nothing, actively resisting the investigation into the events leading up to a young person’s death.
“This is incredibly frustrating for our team, who are working to seek answers on behalf of a grieving whānau.”
Police are sending a strong message to anyone involved in hindering the Police investigation.
“There are people within the Mid North community that know exactly what’s gone on here, and they are choosing to remain silent,” Detective Senior Sergeant Fouhy says.
“No matter what’s happened, a young person has lost their life and people need to start talking.
“Misleading Police or concealing evidence is a criminal offence, and taking part in this may mean you find yourself being prosecuted.”
Police continue to appeal for anyone with information to come forward and speak with the investigation team.
“Our investigation won’t be going away.
“Police are committed to finding answers for Jahkani’s whānau and I acknowledge the patience they have shown in this investigation.”
If you can assist Police, please update police online now or call 105 using the reference number 260506/1270.
Anyone who wishes to provide information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
That’s because people either hate you or don’t trust you and whose fault is that? Try knocking off the politicised policing and you might start to win people back