Authorities have unveiled new CCTV footage that is believed to capture a father who went missing with his three children almost four years ago.
Tom Phillips, along with his children Jayda, 12, Maverick, 10, and Ember, nine, disappeared from their New Zealand home in December 2021 following a reported dispute with their mother, Cat.
It is suspected that Phillips took the children after losing legal custody to their mother, Cat.
A nationwide search commenced, and the children were seemingly spotted in a recording by a group of teenagers last October.
Cat expressed her gratitude towards those who recorded the footage, stating it felt like an early Christmas gift, though Phillips had not been seen since – until now.
The CCTV footage shows two individuals clad in full-body clothing, and police are ‘confident’ it depicts Phillips and one of his children.
The footage shows the duo forcibly entering a store in the small town of Piopio during the early hours of the morning earlier this week before leaving on a quad bike.
Reports from the BBC indicate that Phillips attempted to target the same shop unsuccessfully in November 2023.
The police have publicized the CCTV footage in hopes that the community will report any sightings, facilitating the children’s reunion with their mother.
Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders stated: “At the heart of this are three children who have been away from their home for four years. Their wellbeing is our main focus.”
There is speculation that Phillips may have received assistance from others, and this recent break-in could indicate a shift in his situation.
“We’re looking at, does it mean he’s potentially had a falling out with who’s helping him? Or is he just that brazen and confident that he’s quite happy to come out at night and commit a burglary?” Detective Saunders questioned.
Phillips’ family has recently spoken out, making a direct appeal for him to return home.
His mother, Julia, wrote in a heartfelt note: “Everyday I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home.
“Tom – I feel really sad that you thought you had to do this. Not considering how much we love you and can support you. It hurts every time I see photos of the children and of you and see some of your stuff that is still here.
“Jayda, Maverick, Ember – I love you so much and really miss being part of your lives.”
Phillips is facing charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding, and illegally possessing a firearm.