Operation Mainland release 8
29 July 2008
Police investigating Sunday's drive-by shooting of a man in the small Waikato community of Waharoa have seized a car they believe may hold crucial evidence for their homicide enquiry.
Yesterday a post-mortem carried out in Auckland determined Desmond Francis Paddy ARAHANGA, 28, died from blood loss resulting from internal injuries suffered after being shot four times in his upper body.
Enquiry head, Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Nicholls of Waikato CIB, said the car, a blue 1994 Subaru Legacy Brighton, registration DFS845, was found in Matamata overnight.
"We believe this car was the car used by the offenders in Sunday's shooting and the car is currently being forensically examined," said Mr Nicholls.
"This car matches the description given by a number of witnesses interviewed by Police and so we're now seeking information from anyone who may have seen the vehicle before Sunday's shooting and since then."
Acknowledging support from the local community Mr Nicholls said Police were able to locate the car following a member of the public coming forward and advising investigators of its location.
Meanwhile Mr ARAHANGA'S body was returned to his family yesterday afternoon.
The father of two is with family today and will be taken to his family's marae tomorrow where his tangi will take held.
Mr ARAHANGA'S burial will take place on Friday.
Mr Nicholls said Police were working closely with community elders to ensure emotions didn't boil over and people remained calm to allow investigators to carry out their role.
"We have received good cooperation from the local Waharoa community and are thankful for the support received from local leaders.
"I would like to reiterate earlier requests that people contact Police with any information they may have on Sunday's events to allow us to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion," he said.
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