Accused sex attacker posed as truancy officer, police say

An Auckland man has appeared in court accused of a string of predatory sex attacks on six young girls over a period of almost three years.

Dion Selwyn Tau - a 41-year-old health support worker from Glen Eden, West Auckland - appeared in the Waitakere District Court yesterday on 18 charges, including four of abduction and six of sexual violation. His alleged victims range in age from 13 to 20.

Police arrested Tau following an attack on a 16-year-old girl 12 days ago. Detectives fear there are more victims who have not yet come forward.

Tau, a short and stocky man, stood staunch in the dock, his arms folded at his chest during his brief appearance.

Court documents detail a string of alleged offences, starting with a January 2007 attempted abduction of a 13-year-old.

In November, a 15-year-old was allegedly abducted by a well-dressed man posing as a truancy officer as she walked near her home. Police say Tau drove the girl home after telling her he had to make sure she was not wagging school. It is alleged he punched her in the head and neck, held her throat and sexually violated her.

In Auckland on July 23, a 16-year-old was attacked and threatened with death. The girl was picked up from the central city and driven to a secluded area.

Court documents allege Tau told the girl he was ex-military and linked to the Tribesmen gang.

"He told her he could kill her with his bare hands and to just do as he asked or he would kill her," the documents say. "He said that if she did anything stupid her life was in danger and he would kill her to get rid of her."

Waitemata police district crime services manager Detective Inspector Bruce Scott said the latest attack was not made public because police had uncovered leads to finding their suspect.

Mr Scott said the attacks were "sinister" and he believed there could be other victims.

Police wanted to hear from anyone who might have been approached by a man in a vehicle, or anyone who had been indecently assaulted but had not contacted police.

Judge Lindsay Moore remanded Tau in custody.

Anyone with information is asked to call (09) 488 9775.

* Dion Selywn Tau

1 x indecent assault.

1 x threatening to kill.

2 x assault with intent to commit sexual violation.

2 x burglary.

2 x attempted abduction.

4 x abduction.

6 x sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection.