An Auckland funeral director has been arrested and charged by police investigating allegations of inappropriate handling of burials at Waikumete Cemetery.
It is the second arrest by Operation Lola, launched last year to examine complaints after bodies were disinterred by the Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023.
Undertaker Fiona Bakulich, 48, was previously arrested and pleaded guilty to 14 charges, two of interfering with human remains and 12 of obtaining by deception. She would be sentenced in April.
Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin said a further Auckland funeral service worker had been arrested today.
“Our investigation team has been looking at allegations that loved ones’ remains were inappropriately handled at the cemetery’s mausoleum.”
Baldwin said the man had been charged with obtaining more than $1000 by deception.
“Our investigators’ enquiries are ongoing, and I cannot rule out further charges being laid in this case.
“The Operation Lola team is still interested to hear from other families that may be impacted by this practice or have concerns.”
The man would be appearing in Auckland District Court on March 20.