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Homicide inquiry underway after missing man's body found in Southland

May 22, 2020

Police are treating the death of Southland man Dale Watene, who was missing for more than a month before his body was discovered, as a homicide.

Mr Watene's body was found in the Longwood Forestry block yesterday, in Otautau.

The body was formally identified today.

The 40-year-old hadn't been seen since going missing on April 16, before his truck was found at Holt Park.

Police have confirmed they're now treating his death as a homicide and are appealing for information.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Chris Lucy on 03 211 0400, or anonymous via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

New ZealandCrime and JusticeSouthland

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