Man sought after 15-year-old girl attacked

Western Bay of Plenty police are looking for sightings of a man in connection with an attack on a 15-year-old girl on a rural road in Paengaroa.

The student was walking along Gulliver Road after being dropped off by a school bus at the corner of Gulliver Road and SH2 around 4.00pm on Tuesday 11th September.

She was attacked from behind after hearing footsteps. She struggled with the man for a short time but managed to fight him off.  He then ran off in the direction of SH2.

The man is described is Indian, aged around 20, of tall skinny build and with short hair.

Police are appealing for sightings of anyone fitting this description seen in the SH2 or Gulliver Road area at any time on Tuesday.

Police also want to hear from anyone who may have given someone fitting this description a ride throughout the day in the area.

Detective Sergeant Ryan Yardley of Te Puke police says information can be given to Te Puke police on 07 573 9147. Alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"The actions of the girl were brave and she is recovering with her family" said Mr Yardley.

"This is a concerning incident and we are treating it seriously.

"Whilst we don't want the community to be unduly alarmed it is clearly important that we identify this offender.

"Parents can tell their children to immediately report anything suspicious to police or a trusted adult and look out for each other if they out walking with a friend." said Mr Yardley.