Missing girl and dad: Police appeal to family, friends

APPEAL: Samuel Samson is being urged by police to turn himself in. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Police are appealing to family and friends of a man who took his daughter from a Taupo primary school and is thought to have left town.

Samuel Robert John Samson uplifted his 5-year-old daughter from Wairakei Primary School, last Wednesday afternoon.

The child had been placed in the legal custody of another family member.

Police said they had conducted a number of enquiries to try to locate Samuel who has close links to the Massey Area of Auckland.

Detective Sergeant Tony Manunui of Taupo CIB said they knew Samson was in the Rotorua area on Thursday.

Samson would have family, friends and associates who knew his movements and could help police in locating him.

Mr Manunui said: "I would encourage family, friends or associates of Samuel to come forward and let the police know where he is. We have no immediate concerns for the safety of the girl but the sooner we can speak with Samuel the sooner this matter can be resolved".

Police encouraged family, friends or associates to contact Taupo police station on (07) 378 6060. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Samuel Samson is described as male, Maori, aged 31 years, 178cm tall and of thin build. It is also possible he has his rottweiler dog with him.

Police urged Samuel to take his daughter to the nearest police station "in order to resolve this situation in the best interests of all parties".