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Two men appeared in Wanganui District Court this morning accused of murdering two-year-old Jhia Te Tua in a driveby shooting at Wanganui last moth.
In Wanganui District Court this morning the two men, aged 18 and 20, were granted interim name suppression and remanded in custody until June 11.
The duo were arrested at the weekend at separate Wanganui addresses over the weekend, after police were tipped off by members of the public.
Jhia died when shots were fired from a passing car at her parents' Puriri Street home, in suburban Gonville on May 5.
Her father was a Black Power member, and police believe a Mongrel Mob member fired the shot which killed Jhia.
The men first appeared in court yesterday when they were charged with offences unrelated to the Jhia's killing.
They remained silent during today's brief hearing when the remand in custody was not opposed.
More than 50 police have been involved in the hunt for Jhia's killer in the wake of an event which shocked and outraged the residents of Wanganui.
Several Mongrel Mob members have been arrested for offences leading up to Jhia's shooting and police have recovered six firearms in a series of raids on gang properties.
Police last week lambasted Mongrel Mob members who they said should be ashamed of their actions since the death of Jhia.
Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Bensemann said last week the investigation team was left with the impression nothing had been learnt from Jhia's death, and gang members had "no concept" as to the consequences of their actions.
The Mongrel Mob had behaved with complete arrogance, he said.
"The Mongrel Mob have shown complete disregard for the value of life and complete disrespect to baby Jhia and her family.
"They should all be ashamed of their actions, not only those responsible, but every friend, family member, or associate protecting these criminals."
Wanganui police area commander, Inspector Duncan MacLeod, said today the murder investigation continued, despite the breakthrough.
Many persons remained to be seen and numerous search warrants had to be completed, he said.
The investigation team still numbered 50 staff with assistance from as far away as Invercargill and Auckland, he said.
The team was in for the long haul with extensive inquiries continuing around information already to hand.
"I believe that there are further persons still out in the community who have material information that will assist this inquiry," Mr MacLeod said.
"I appeal to those persons to come forward before there are any more tragedies or regrets."
Anyone with information is asked to use the 0508 For Jhia line (0508 367 5442).
- NZPA
