Woman escapes abduction with self-defence

The man is described as European, approximately 175cm tall, in his mid to late 20s and wearing a sleeveless top. Photo / Supplied

Police have praised a woman who escaped an attempted abduction in rural Canterbury using self-defence techniques.

The woman was at a recreation area near Lincoln, about 40 minutes south-west of Christchurch, at 10pm on December 5, but left her friends to go to a nearby toilet block.

Detective Senior Sergeant David Harvey said as the victim walked along Lake Rd, a dark-coloured station wagon slowed down next to her and the sole occupant called out to her.

Through the open passenger window he asked her to get in his car and go with him.

"He then stopped the car and approached her. The victim made it clear that she would not go with him and walked away from the man," said Mr Harvey.

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"The man grabbed her wrist and pulled her back towards the vehicle. The victim then told the man to let her go and used self-defence techniques to get away from him. She heard the vehicle leave as she ran back towards her friends."

The man is described as European, approximately 175cm tall, in his mid- to late-20s and wearing a sleeveless top.

"Police are keen to hear from anyone in the area at the time of the incident or saw a dark-coloured station wagon travelling along Lake Rd in the vicinity of Coes Ford," said Mr Harvey.

Investigations into this incident are ongoing and police hope the sketch will help identify the man.

"Everyone has a right to be safe and feel safe whether at home, at work or socialising with friends," Mr Harvey said.

"The courage and bravery of the victim is to be commended. By speaking out and reporting the incident to police she has potentially stopped someone else becoming a victim.

"Police encourage anyone out socialising with friends, whether in the city or rural areas, to remain aware of their surroundings and be vigilant if anyone tries to approach them when they are alone."

CAN YOU HELP?

• If you recognise the man in the sketch or were in the area at the time please call the Adult Sexual Assault team in Christchurch Central Station on 03 363 7400.
• Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
• If you see anyone behaving suspiciously contact Police straight away and always call 111 in an emergency.