The Four-Year Manhunt That Gripped a Nation
New Zealand police have disclosed that Tom Phillips, the fugitive father who evaded capture for nearly four years with his three children, might have established more hidden bush camps than those already discovered. This revelation comes after the dramatic conclusion to the nationwide search, which ended in Phillips being shot dead following an armed robbery and a confrontation with police.
A Network of Hidden Camps and Supporters
Phillips first vanished from the rural community of Marokopa in December 2021, spiriting away his children amidst a bitter custody dispute with their mother. For years, he successfully avoided one of the country's most extensive manhunts, aided by a small network of supporters and a series of camouflaged shelters buried deep within the rugged terrain.
Last month, police released photographs of two secret hideouts located in the dense bush near Marokopa. These structures, crafted from tarpaulins and natural bush materials, were so well-integrated into the landscape they were almost invisible. Detective Superintendent Ross McKay confirmed that Phillips and the children had moved between these sites.
However, authorities now believe this was not the full extent of his operation. On Wednesday, police indicated that the 'dense and difficult to navigate' wilderness around Marokopa could be concealing additional campsites. "While we believe we have found the primary campsites, it is not possible to say with absolute certainty that we have found every site where the family stayed," a police statement read.
A Tragic End and an Ongoing Inquiry
The years-long search, which involved specialist units like the Armed Offenders Squad and the New Zealand Defence Force, reached its climax on September 8. Phillips was intercepted near the rural town of Piopio after an armed robbery at a farm supply store. He was accompanied by his 12-year-old daughter, Jayda.
When officers deployed road spikes, Phillips opened fire at close range, critically injuring one officer by shooting him in the head. Phillips was killed in the ensuing shootout. His daughter later guided police to a campsite approximately 2km away, where her two younger siblings were found unharmed.
Despite the violent end, police have reiterated that the safety and wellbeing of the children was always their paramount concern. The investigation continues as police work to identify all individuals who assisted Phillips during his time on the run. Authorities have thanked the local community for their "helpful information" and urge anyone with further details to come forward.
