14 Jun 2024

Mustafa Ali: Man charged with murder of baby

3:49 pm on 14 June 2024
Police launch homicide investigation after baby boy dies in Waikato - home where alleged homicide happened.

Photo: RNZ/Natalie Akoorie

A 22-year-old man has been arrested for 10-month-old Mustafa Ali's murder at Te Kūiti on 8 June.

The man is due to appear in Hamilton District Court on Saturday, police say.

Mustafa Maheir Mukzameel Ali was taken to Te Kūiti Hospital unconscious last Saturday afternoon and was unable to be revived.

He died a short time later and police began a homicide investigation.

Earlier this week police said he died of violent blunt force trauma.

The parents had spoken to police but Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley said he had concerns there were inconsistencies with the family's statements.

Today he said it was possible more charges would be laid.

"The police investigation into Mustafa's death and other incidents that occurred during his short life is ongoing.

"Police are continuing to support Mustafa's wider family, as they grieve the loss of their little boy, and our thoughts are with them," he said in a statement.

Family and friends buried the baby boy at the Te Kūiti Cemetery on Thursday. They gathered around the tiny grave, where a cross, flowers and soft toys were laid.

Pitkethley thanked all those who have come forward with information to assist their investigation.

"Te Kūiti residents can expect to see a continued police presence in the area as we continue to examine and reconstruct the full circumstances of Mustafa's life."

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