He took the children and disappeared into the wilderness three years ago

This unlikely case has attracted a lot of attention around the world and will begin in 2021.

Thomas Callam Phillips was then in an injured custody dispute and lost. In December of the same year, he took his three young children and disappeared into the mountains surrounding the small coastal community of Marokoba in northern New Zealand.

Police launched a major search effort, but no one has been able to see Phillips or the children — yet.

Hog hunters spot Phillips

In October of this year, a group of young men were out pig hunting, but ended up in the middle of a hunt for Philips instead. Someone picks up his camera and films the wandering family. In the clip, you can hear how he tries to communicate with them, but without getting a response.

– Hey, hurry, he says.

80,000 in tip money

In June, police offered $80,000 to anyone with information that could lead to Phillips' arrest. This offer has now expired. They also announced that Phillips is a suspect in several crimes, including aggravated robbery and illegal possession of a firearm.

We need reliable information that can enable children to return home safely. We remain concerned for their safety,” Waikato Police Inspector Andrew Saunders said.

Police suspected The children had not been in contact with other people for the past three years, and that they were now helping their father commit crimes.

Learn more about the case in the video above.