NZ Police
January 11 2007

Christchurch Police Continuing Investigation
Press Release

Christchurch police are continuing their investigation into the death of 10-year-old Charlene Makaza.

Charlene was admitted to Christchurch Hospital on Saturday morning after her aunt found her in bed with breathing difficulties. She died in hospital the following day. A post-mortem examination points strongly to suffocation as the cause of Charlene's death.

Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston of the Christchurch Police says police want to ensure that they have spoken to all people who were with or saw Charlene in the days leading up to her death. They are continuing with interviews today.

Detective Inspector Johnston says that results from forensic tests taken during the post mortem could take several weeks.