新西兰失踪案：野外生存者与家庭呼唤的拉锯战

Tom Phillips, a fugitive father, remains at large with his three children in New Zealand's rugged Waikato wilderness, having evaded authorities for over three years since fleeing before Christmas 2021. His sister, Rozzi Phillips, has made a public appeal, breaking her silence to express deep longing for her brother and nieces and nephews, hoping her words will reach him and encourage a safe return. Phillips, who lacks legal custody, has demonstrated exceptional survival skills and an ability to remain undetected, a feat that has captivated and frustrated New Zealanders. His prolonged disappearance is punctuated by alleged criminal activities, including a bank robbery and an attempted store robbery, indicating a continued evasion of societal norms and law enforcement.

Phillips's mastery of the wilderness, coupled with his family's pleas and the significant reward offered for information, highlights the complex challenges in locating him. The remote and unforgiving terrain of the Waikato region, characterized by dense forests and isolated settlements like Marokopa, has proven a formidable obstacle for police. While speculation exists about community assistance, the primary focus remains on the safe recovery of the children and Phillips's eventual reappearance. Authorities have indicated a willingness to negotiate, emphasizing the need to end the prolonged ordeal and allow the children to resume normal lives, while Phillips confronts the consequences of his actions.

Family of New Zealand fugitive on the run for almost four years with his children plead for his return

In a New Zealand television interview, relatives spoke of their anguish since Tom Phillips disappeared with his three children in late 2021

The GuardianEva Corlett