"Operation Botany update VI; arrest made but second offender remains at large"

Waikato Police investigating the fatal shooting of a man outside a south Hamilton home on Friday have arrested one man in relation to the incident but warn a second remains at large and should not be approached.

District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Karl Thornton, said as a result of information received from the community Hamilton Police, assisted by the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad, searched three addresses in Te Rapa and Nawton early this evening.

"The searches were in relation to Operation Botany, the homicide investigation into the death of 29-year-old Michael James THOMPSON last Friday.

"As a result of a search conducted at an Ellicott Rd address one 17-year-old male was arrested and is currently being interviewed by detectives."

Mr Thornton said while it was a good result to have progressed the inquiry to this point another 17-year-old man was still being sought in relation to the shooting.

"Police are seeking the public's assistance in locating 17-year-old Tyson-Tainui RUKUWAI TE TOMO who is believed to have access to firearms and should not be approached.

"A male Maori of medium build and about 175cm tall, RUKUWAI TE TOMO has a distinctive "Mighty Mongrel Mob" bulldog tattoo on the left cheek of his face.

Anyone who recognises this man is urged not to approach him but instead contact Police by phoning 111."

Mr Thornton said anyone with any information on the whereabouts of the two wanted men, or who saw anything related to Friday night's incident who hasn't already spoken to Police is asked to contact the Op Botany team at the Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 858 6200."

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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