Plea to public in hunt for vital clues

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Police say they have received a lot of help from the public over the disappearance of Wanganui man Whitu Hansen, who is presumed dead.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Harrison said the police had received a dozen calls relating to sightings of the vehicle Mr Hansen was last seen driving and "also of Mr Hansen himself".

Mr Hansen, 48, has been missing since November 24 and armed police searched a Linton, Palmerston North, property in recent days.

On Tuesday, they upgraded their investigation to a homicide inquiry.

"The public can help us solve this homicide investigation," Mr Harrison said.

"If you know something, please contact police. You could have that piece of information that could help us solve this crime and bring much-needed relief to Mr Hansen's family."

Anyone with information should contact Detective Dave Wilson 06 213 9595 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

A man arrested during the search for Mr Hansen has appeared in Palmerston North District Court, where a JP imposed suppression orders relating to name, age, address and the charges he faces.

He was remanded in custody to December 17.