Police launch investigation into manslaughter; Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua reported that the bodies had been stored for several years
Reproduction/Website/Dean Purcell/New Zealand Herald via AP
the police of New Zealand announced on Thursday 18th the discovery of the bodies of two school children in suitcases being auctioned off at an Auckland warehouse. Authorities launched a murder investigation to analyze the case. “The nature of this find poses a certain complexity to the investigation, especially given the time that has elapsed between the moment of death and the moment of discovery,” said Inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua, adding that the bodies were probably in for several years suitcases were hidden. . . Vaaelua stressed that the New Zealand police work with the international agency Interpol. The police suspect that the family members of the victims are in New Zealand. “We are doing our best to identify the victims and are making very good progress with DNA testing,” he said. “The investigation team is working hard to bring accountability to the person or persons responsible for the deaths of these children,” he added. The inspector showed them sympathy because they might not have known the children had died. The remains were found when a family brought home a trailer full of items sold at a warehouse auction. Police said the buyer’s family had nothing to do with the murder but were “understandably concerned at the discovery” and asked for privacy. The personal effects found along with the suitcases help to find clues to identify the victims. Both the warehouse and the house from which the bags were stolen are being examined by forensic experts.