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Police have arrested three people and charged them over alleged historical offending at a contracted care facility in Auckland.
Counties Manukau CIB began investigating after Oranga Tamariki notified police in June 2021 around matters of concern with a contracted care provider operating within the wider south Auckland region.
Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers said investigators working on Operation Annalise have since spoken with more than 500 people.
Some males were identified as having been placed with the provider between 2002 and 2021, and many of them were now adults.
"Police have now reached a point in our investigation where we have filed charges," Detective Inspector Vickers said.
"In recent days, police have located and arrested three people within the Counties Manukau District.
A 72-year-old woman is facing 43 charges, relating to 12 victims, including 19 sexual offences, nine ill treatment offences and seven assault offences.
A 33-year-old woman is facing 17 charges, relating to seven victims, including 11 sexual offences and two ill treatment offences.
A man, 33, is facing 12 charges, relating to eight victims. Eight assault and two ill treatment offences are among the chose charges.
The man was due to appear in the Manukau District Court this afternoon.
The two women will appear in the Pukekohe District Court on 21 and 22 February respectively.
Police were mindful of the victims' privacy, Detective Inspector Vickers said.
"Our investigation team has been ensuring welfare is in place for those we have been speaking to, and we will continue to ensure there is appropriate support available moving forward."
As inquiries continued, more arrests may be made and further charges may be laid, he said.
"Police are encouraging anyone who might have information that may assist the investigation further to get in contact with us, or if they wish to discuss any matters relating to this offending."
Police have set up dedicated 0800 number (0800 266 25473) for people to provide further information or discuss matters relating to offending under Operation Annalise.