Police are concerned that some commentators appear to be deliberately misrepresenting the actions taken by Police to secure the property at Wainoni Road.
Police had advised the owners of the property, including the Australian based company that secures the mortgage, that there had been a threat of arson to the address. Following this warning Police retained scene guards for two additional days to allow for those who have direct interest in the asset to protect it. No such action was taken by those parties.
Inspector Dave Lawry, Northern Area Commander, states that police are unable to keep a guard on the property indefinitely and had passed the keys to those who have an interest in the property.
"Police Scene guards were due to finish their duties as the scene examination was completed on Monday 14 September however police arranged to supply scene guards until 7am on Wednesday 16 September to allow other security arrangements to be put in place," he says. "The neighbour, Mr Hall, has also elected to take no action to protect his property."
Jason and Rebecca Somerville's family had already removed possessions.
Police had also arranged for the appropriate Kaumatua to bless the property and lift any tapu on Monday before they left the scene.
"Commentators indicating that the property should be removed are in fact misguided both in cultural terms and in law. This vigilante action is straight out arson."
The New Brighton Fire Service was advised of the possible threat of arson. Community Watch and Police patrols were keeping the house under surveillance during regular patrols.