Public help still sought despite arrest

Public help still sought despite Alkema homicide arrest

National News Release, 08:45, 24 April 2002

Police investigating the murder of Lower Hutt woman Kate Alkema still need public help with information despite the arrest of a man late last night.

A 21-year-old Lower Hutt man will appear in the Lower Hutt District Court this morning charged with murder.

Ms Alkema’s body was found on the western riverbank beside the Hutt River near Pharazyn Street, Melling, about 4.15pm Saturday week ago after she failed to return home from a morning walk.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Oxnam, head of Operation Melling, said the arrest does not signal an end to the case.

"It’s a great day to be a cop but we’ve still got a lot of work to do," he said. "Public help has been tremendous and this arrest has come as a direct result of information from the public.

"We’re still very interested in sightings of a male cyclist and a person with a small white dog, or any suspicious activity seen near the area where Kate’s body was found," Mr Oxnam said.

He’d also like to hear from people who may have taken still photos or videos of the riverbank area on Saturday morning.

Calls should go through to the 0800 666 995 hotline.

"Kate’s family were advised of the arrest late last night and they have mixed emotions. Nothing will bring back Kate," Mr Oxnam said.

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