Three arrested after Kiwi man shot by pirates in Panama

Saturday, 4 May 2019

Alan Culverwell died in Panama while defending his family from armed robbers who boarded their yacht. He is pictured here with his wife, Derryn, who was injured during the attack.

Three people have reportedly been arrested over the death of New Zealand father Alan Culverwell in Panama.

Culverwell, 60, was defending his family when he was shot by pirates who attacked their yacht near Morodub Island, a popular tourist area about 2am on May 2 (local time).

His wife Derryn and two 11-year-old children were on board at the time. Derryn sustained a machete wound in the attack, before contacting relatives who organised a rescue, Culverwell's sister previously told Stuff.

The three people arrested - including a minor - are reportedly due to face court in Colon on Sunday, New Zealand time, according to Panama broadcaster TVN.

The Marlborough family had spent two years sailing around the Caribbean, and were on their way to the Panama Canal, before finally making their way back to New Zealand.

A GoFundMe fundraising page said the Culverwells were 'without a doubt the kindest and most genuine family'.

Marlborough District councillor Nadine Taylor said Alan Culverwell had been a long-serving director on the NZ Paua Industry Council, which was collecting donations for his family.

A Police spokeswoman said it was not involved in an investigation into Culverwell's death, and referred inquiries to police in Panama and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

MFAT has been contacted for comment.