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Additional charges have been laid against an Auckland funeral director arrested last week amid the investigation into allegations of inappropriate handling of burials at a West Auckland cemetery.

Friday’s arrest was the second during Operation Lola, a police investigation to examine complaints into bodies that were disinterred after flooding in early 2023.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin confirmed today that two additional charges have been filed against the man set to appear in the Auckland District Court on Thursday, March 20.

“This man faces an additional charge of obtains by deception and one count of interfering with a human remains,” Baldwin said.

“I can confirm these charges relate to a second complaint made with police.”

The Auckland-based man was initially charged with obtains by deception over $1000.

Baldwin said police had been looking at allegations that loved ones’ remains were inappropriately handled at the Waikumete Cemetery mausoleum. They have also been investigating allegations of fraud.

Last week he said the man arrested “will be held to account”. He said further charges could not be ruled out as investigations continued.

The second arrest came after former Tipene Funerals employee and Casketeers star Fiona Bakulich admitted to 14 charges of mishandling human remains and obtaining by deception in a surprise plea in the Auckland District Court at the beginning of the month.

Bakulich is set to be sentenced in April.

Baldwin last week said investigators have been working through complex issues in their investigation.

”The Operation Lola team is still interested to hear from other families that may be impacted by this practice or have concerns.

“Anyone with concerns can contact 105 using the reference number 240808/8008 or Operation Lola.”