The Department of Conservation (Doc) and police are executing a joint investigation into the shooting of three sea lions near the mouth of the Waitaki River last weekend.
In a joint press release yesterday, both organisations said they were assessing evidence and following lines of inquiry.
Doc southern South Island operations director Aaron Fleming said the response to calls for information had been heartening.
"Thousands of New Zealanders are sharing in our shock and disgust.
"Everyone who sees and shares the news could bring us another step closer to finding who is responsible."
Detective Senior Sergeant Nik Leigh said the incident has upset the community, Doc and police.
"This is a senseless act against a protected species and we’re eager to find those responsible and hold them to account."
If anyone had seen or knew anything or could otherwise help, they were asked to call police on 105 quoting event number P063434540, or to visit the Oamaru police station, or call 0800 DOCHOT to speak to Doc. — Allied Media
