New Zealand PM Expects Inquiry Into Tom Phillips Four-Year Fugitive Case

Tom Phillips, who spent nearly four years on the run in New Zealand's King Country bush with his three children following a custody dispute, was fatally shot by police after a shootout. Despite a substantial police reward, no one turned Phillips in, and investigators continue probing those who may have aided him during his time in hiding. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has expressed his expectation that the government will hold an inquiry into how government agencies, including police and Oranga Tamariki, handled the case over the past four years, emphasizing the need to answer the many reasonable questions raised. Legal experts have cautioned against forcing Phillips' children to identify his accomplices, highlighting the importance of protecting their welfare and ensuring any questioning is conducted with strict safeguards to avoid retraumatization. The dramatic recovery of the children, including the eldest helping police locate the younger siblings, has drawn national and international attention and intensified calls from child safety experts for a full independent inquiry. The wellbeing of the children and the injured police officer remain central concerns as the investigation and potential inquiry proceed.