Please attribute to Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney, Field Crime Manager, Canterbury Police:
The Kate Valley Landfill specialist search phase of Operation Renovation has now been completed.
The investigation team has been at the site since the 15th of June, searching a defined area for items of interest in the Michael McGrath investigation.
Over 2,500 tonnes of rubbish has been searched.
The arduous but absolutely vital task has been carried out by teams of police officers with assistance from NZ Army staff.
It has been tough work in the midst of winter for all involved; police officers, including leaders of all ranks, took turns to uncover evidence for this case.
We are determined to obtain answers for Michael’s family and this is an example of the detail that the Police will go to, to establish the truth.
The focus will now move to the assessment and forensic examination of items of interest recovered from the dump.
Canterbury Police are very appreciative to the management and staff at Canterbury Waste Services at Kate Valley Landfill who have allowed this work to take place and provided valuable logistical expertise.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Advisory to journalists: No further comment can be provided around what was located. Darryl Sweeney is unavailable for interviews.