Police are nearing the final stages of the criminal investigation into the first explosion at Pike River Mine in November 2010.
Detective Superintendent Darryl Sweeney says this nationally significant and unique investigation is legally complex and Police have been working alongside the Crown Solicitor Wellington for over 18 months.
"We acknowledge this year will be 16 years since the disaster.
"Before any decisions can be made, we will be conducting a further investigation phase.
"To protect the integrity of the investigation, we will not be providing specifics.
"However, I can say any further update is likely to be several months away.
"We appreciate questions over the time this investigation has taken, but Police are committed to exploring all possible lines of enquiry out of respect for the 29 miners and their families," Detective Superintendent Sweeney says.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: NZ Police
