Three News
January 15 2007; 21:39

Police refuse to comment on Makaza sexual abuse reports

Police are refusing to comment on media reports that a 10-year-old Christchurch girl who died of suspected suffocation was sexually abused.

Charlene Makaza and her 12-year-old sister were living with their aunt, uncle and two adult cousins before she was found unconscious in her own bed more than a week ago.

Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston is refusing to comment on weekend media reports saying the girl was sexually assaulted before she died.

A Child Youth and Family spokeswoman has confirmed that Charlene's sister has been taken into care, but would not say why.