Waikato Police investigating an indecent assault of a young girl in the Coromandel overnight are appealing for the public's help in finding the person responsible.
District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Chris Page, said officers were called to the Coromandel town of Cooks Beach at about 7.30 pm last night after a man exposed himself and indecently assaulted a five-year-old girl.
"The girl had been walking with family along the Riverview Rd Reserve at the northern end of Cooks Beach when she and her seven-year-old cousin were confronted by a naked man.
"The two children were a short distance in front of other family members as the group walked back from the beach. It was then the girls were confronted by this naked man who indecently assaulted the five-year-old girl before members of the public and family intervened."
Mr Page said the man ran off and was pursued by a member of the public but was not located.
"Understandably the family and children are shaken up over the incident but the children are safe with their parents and the family are being provided Victim Support services.
"Our staff are working with the parents to obtain more details about the incident from the children using specialist child interviewers."
Initial reports indicate that the fleeing man got away in a silver hatchback car with slightly tinted windows at the back and this vehicle appeared to be about 10 years old.
The offender was described as:
A clean shaven Caucasian male who has dark hair and was carrying a red and yellow towel.
"Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time who saw this person or observed a vehicle fitting the description.
"The public can make contact with the Whitianga Police Station on 07 858 6200, or through your nearest Police Station.
"Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."
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