The extended family of Moko Rangitoheriri has asked that media please desist from contacting and approaching them, as this is causing further distress at what is already a very difficult time.
The family has advised Police that as well as attempting to speak to members of the extended family at their residences and workplaces, some media have approached a young sibling of Moko at their school, which is considered an inappropriate invasion of privacy for an already vulnerable young person.
While Police appreciates the intense media and public interest in this case, the extended family have asked that the media please consider the detrimental and stressful impact that these approaches are having on them, particularly vulnerable younger family members.
We therefore ask on the family’s behalf that media please respect their request for privacy, and cease contacting extended family members.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.