Suspects eliminated from Sockburn rape inquiries

File photo / NZ Herald

A number of suspects have been eliminated from inquiries, as Christchurch police investigate the brutal rape of a young Sockburn mother.

A team of six detectives is working to identify the fluoro-vested man who duped his way into the woman's Middlepark Rd flat just over three weeks ago saying he was inspecting storm damage.

The woman in her 20s, who was at home with her seven-month-old baby, was threatened with a knife, forced into a bedroom and attacked.

Detective Inspector Greg Murton said police have identified a number of suspects and were continuing to speak to "people that have come to our attention during the inquiries" and others who have provided information.

"We are speaking to a large number of people as we work through our investigation and we are satisfied that many of the individuals spoken to have no involvement in the case," he told The Star.

"This is still very much an active investigation and inquiries are continuing on several fronts."

Detective Inspector Murton said tests on forensic evidence taken from the flat were still being done.

The man is described as Maori or Polynesian, aged in his late 40s, tall and of stocky build. He has a large nose with red markings, a slightly bushy moustache and dark mop-like hair almost to his eyebrows and covering his ears. He is believed to be missing one or two teeth from one side of his mouth.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police Ph 363 7400 or anonymously through Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.