Four youths will appear in the Christchurch District Court today with new charges relating to the Japanese student whose body was found in the Heathcote River 11 days ago.
Three of the youths are aged 17, and the fourth aged 16.
The four youths have all been charged with assault with intent to rob and dishonestly using a document. One has also been charged with the theft of the student Yasuaki Shishikura’s belongings. All charges have been laid indictably.
The maximum penalty for the assault with intent to rob charge is 14 years imprisonment.
The body of Mr Shishikura, 23, of Japan, was found in the Heathcote River on Saturday September 25. He was found with an injury to his head and a minor injury to his ribs.
Detective Inspector Greg Williams, the head of the police inquiry, said the charges laid today had arisen after an extensive week and a half long investigation by police.
"Based on the information we have, these are the most appropriate charges for this group," he said.
NB. Greg Williams will be available for media interviews this afternoon. Should you wish to interview Detective Inspector Williams please contact Diane Keenan on 3637 815 and when he is available he will return your call.