Arrest in brutal rape and stabbing case

A 16-year-old teenager has been charged in connection with a brutal New Year's Eve stabbing and rape, but police say he may not have acted alone.

Police said the 14-year-old Vietnamese victim fought for her life and they could easily have been investigating a homicide had her mother not heard her cries for help at her home in Manukau, South Auckland.

Police said today the teenager in custody had been charged with burglary and assault. More charges could be laid.

Others could be involved and police wanted to hear from anyone who suspected or knew of other offenders, said Detective Senior Sergeant Sue Schwalger.

She said the development might spark talk in the community in the hope "those who know something have the courage to come to us".

The arrested youth was due to appear in the Manukau District Youth Court today.

- NZPA