Police Release CCTV Footage of Fugitive Tom Phillips and Child

Police have released CCTV footage believed to show fugitive father Tom Phillips and one of his children. This footage emerges as authorities continue their search for Phillips and his three children, who have been missing since December 2021, after he took them from Marokopa to an undisclosed location. Phillips faces multiple charges, including aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The new video is linked to a reported break-in at a business in Piopio around 02:00 on Wednesday. In the footage, two individuals with covered faces are seen attempting to break into the establishment, with visible sparks as they force their way inside. Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders expressed belief that the individuals are Phillips and one of his children. “In this latest burglary, the offenders have left with a number of general grocery items,” Saunders noted.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen a quadbike traveling or parked between Piopio and Marokopa during the early hours of Wednesday to come forward. “At the heart of this are three children who have been away from their home for four years,” Saunders emphasized. “Their wellbeing is our main focus.”

A media briefing on the investigation is scheduled to take place in Hamilton later on Friday. In June 2024, police announced an $80,000 reward for information that would lead to the location and safe return of the family; however, that offer has since expired.

The plight of Phillips’ children has drawn significant public attention. The children’s mother, Cat, spoke to RNZ’s Saturday Morning about her struggles and the challenges she has faced since their disappearance. “I wouldn’t wish this situation on anybody, not even on my worst enemy. It’s… wrong. That’s all it is,” she stated.

As the investigation continues, police maintain a focus on gathering information that could lead to the safe recovery of the children and the apprehension of their father.