The Police search for Phillip Edwards continues into the evening with the officer in charge, Detective Inspector Scott Beard, strongly advising any family or friends who might be tempted to assist Edwards to think again.
Phillip Edwards is believed to be responsible for the abduction yesterday of two year-old Gabriel Witehira-Donnelly, the son of a friend of Edwards. Gabriel was found safe but cold and hungry in a shed on a Panmure property at about 7.15pm yesterday.
Detective Inspector Beard says staff have been out and about all day checking on locations and connections that Phillip Edwards may be trying to link up with.
"If anyone, including family or friends, is tempted to assist Phillip they need to seriously consider the implications for themselves and, instead, contact us or tell him to give himself up."
Investigating officers have set up an 0800 number - 0800 332 334 - and anyone who has information about Philip Edwards is urged to call either that or 111 immediately.
The most recent photo of him is available on the Police website and the Auckland City Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/AucklandPolice
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz