Arrests made in Rotorua homicide investigation

Rotorua Police have arrested a 21 year old unemployed Rotorua man with the murder of a man whose body was found in Kuirau Park in the early hours of Tuesday 24 January.

The man was arrested last night and will appear in the Rotorua District Court this morning.

The Bay of Plenty Police District Field Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Mark Loper, says a 15 year old male has also been arrested and charged with assault in connection with the incident. He will appear in the Rotorua Youth Court today. Detective Inspector Loper says it is likely more serious charges will be laid.

Detective Inspector Loper says search warrants were executed at three Rotorua properties this morning, and it is likely that further people will be arrested and additional charges laid as the investigation progresses.

"It has been a very busy few days for the investigation team, many of whom have worked extremely long hours to try and solve this crime. Their hard work is to be commended, but it is not over yet."

Detective Inspector Loper says the investigation team located further items of interest overnight in relation to the homicide, including property belonging to the victim.

He says as a result, the Police Dive Squad are in the process of relocating their operations from Kuirau Park, to focus on the Utuhina Stream near the Sunset Rd area.

"Rotorua Police and the investigation team would like to thank members of the public who came forward with information that has contributed to these initial arrests.

"There is still a great deal of work to be done both on the investigation and to prepare this case for court, and we would like to hear from anyone who has further information about this death. Please contact Rotorua Police on 07 348 0099 or call the independent Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111."

Detective Inspector Loper says Police have confirmed the identity of the deceased man and next of kin overseas have been notified. He can now be officially named as Roman Henry Skorek, 64 years. Mr Skorek was of Polish descent and had been living between New Zealand and Niue.

A further media update may be provided this afternoon.