Serial predator still on the loose

Photo / File

A serial predator attacking lone young women in Auckland's upmarket inner-city suburbs is still on the loose, despite detectives appealing for information.

Police said at least six women had been indecently assaulted in Ponsonby and Freemans Bay over a 12-month period and four incidents appeared to be linked.

The incidents occurred between November 2, 2012 and November 12, 2013, mostly late at night.

In each of the known incidents the victim was approached and spoken to before being grabbed and assaulted.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Florence said more women had come forward reporting similar attacks following renewed publicity.

"We're continuing with enquiries. We are following some other leads which have come in as a result.

Last week Mr Florence said there were similarities between the victims' descriptions of their attacker.

Their suspect is likely to be a fair-skinned Maori or Polynesian in his late teens or early 20s who is of slight build, comparatively short, with noticeably big eyes and short, cropped hair.

Victims are urged to contact Detective Constable Martin Friend at Avondale CIB on (09) 213 8484 or via martin.friend@police.govt.nz.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Known incidents

* Nov 2, 2012: Hepburn St, near Barry St, Freemans Bay, 4.45am

* Jan 9, 2013: Richmond Rd, near Jessel St, Grey Lynn, 6.20pm

* Feb 24, 2013: Richmond Rd, near Millais St, Grey Lynn, 2.15am

* April 7, 2013: John St, near Summer St, Ponsonby, 2am

* Sept 15, 2013: Franklin Rd, near Heke St, Freemans Bay, 5am

* Nov 12, 2013: Halsey St, near Gaunt St, St Mary's Bay, 11.30pm