A desperate search is underway in New Zealand for British father-of-six Tom Phillips, who is accused of opening fire on police officers before vanishing into rugged bushland with his three young children.
The dramatic incident unfolded on Thursday in the remote Waikato region, where police located a vehicle connected to the 34-year-old expat. As officers approached, Phillips allegedly emerged from the bush and discharged a firearm towards them before retreating back into the wilderness with his children Jayda Jin, 8, Maverick, 9, and Ember, 7.
Massive Police Operation Launched
Authorities have responded with a significant deployment of resources, including the elite Armed Offenders Squad, dog teams, and the Eagle police helicopter. The search area, described as "dense and challenging" bushland near the small settlement of Marokopa, has become the focus of one of New Zealand's most urgent manhunts.
"A firearm was discharged by the offender towards police," confirmed Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird. "No one was injured, however this is clearly a concerning escalation in events and we have a significant number of staff dedicated to locating Tom and the children."
Children at Centre of Ongoing Ordeal
Phillips and his three children have been the subject of police attention since they first disappeared in September 2021. Their mysterious initial disappearance sparked a widespread search before they reappeared 19 days later, with Phillips claiming they had been camping and became disoriented.
The children's mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has endured an agonising wait for their safe return. Police have expressed grave concerns for the welfare of the children, stating they have now been exposed to "significant risk and trauma."
Superintendent Bird directly addressed Phillips: "We need to hear from you Tom, to know that you and the children are okay. It is not too late to do the right thing and contact police, or reach out to someone you trust who can contact police on your behalf."
International Manhunt for British National
Phillips, originally from Britain, is believed to have strong connections to the Waikato region where he has lived for several years. The New Zealand Police have warned the public not to approach him but to immediately contact authorities with any information.
The incident has shocked the local community and drawn international attention due to the involvement of the British national and the ongoing safety concerns for the three missing children.
