Police remain concerned for welfare of man seen by river

Wednesday, 6 August 2014 - 11:07am

Bay of Plenty

Police concerned for the welfare of a man seen in a precarious position over the Waikato River in Taupo yesterday have received new information prompting them to call off a Police Dive Squad search.

Two people contacted police at approximately 3.20pm yesterday (Wednesday, 5 August) concerned about the behaviour and location of a man on a concrete structure by the Control Gate Bridge.

However a woman who saw the Facebook page appeal has contacted police this morning to report that she saw him on a street in Nukuhau after he was seen on the bridge by the river.

Whilst the information suggests he did not return to the bridge, police are still sufficiently concerned about his welfare to continue the public appeal to identify him.

A number of enquiries have been made and security cameras checked and a CCTV image has been located that police believe is likely the man seen by the river. The image is not very clear but is hopefully sufficient for anyone known to the man to recognise him.

He is described a Maori, medium build, wearing a grey sweatshirt, light jean shorts and a hat. Age is unclear.

Police renew their appeal for this man to make contact and assure us that he is safe and well. Anyone who knows who this man might be, or has any concerns for the welfare of a man fitting this description is asked to contact Taupo Police on 07 378 6060.

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