Christchurch Police are appealing for sightings of a red car in the Prebbleton area late yesterday afternoon, after an alleged attempted abduction of a young boy.
Police say a boy of primary-school age was walking in Elmwood Drive around 5.00pm yesterday [Wednesday 7 November] when he was grabbed from behind.
Detective Sergeant Craig Farrrant says it appears the alleged offender, a male, attempted to drag the boy down Elmwood Drive towards a waiting vehicle.
"We understand the boy has managed to grab a stick and fight back, and managed to break free and run to his home nearby.
"The alleged offender is reported to have run off."
The boy was not injured in the incident.
Detective Sergeant Farrrant says the alleged offender, a male possibly in his teens, may be linked to a red, four-door sports type vehicle.
"We are anxious to hear of any sightings of vehicles or activity in the area around Elmwood Drive and Prebbleton School late yesterday afternoon," he says.
"At this stage this appears to be a one-off incident and we do not believe there is any cause for residents to be concerned.
"However we also urge residents to continue to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to Police."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Farrant at Christchurch Police on (03) 363 7400.
Alternatively, to provide information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS