Police have yet to speak with a five-year-old girl viciously
attacked at a Turangi camping ground last week, but they have
identified "persons of interest".
The girl was assaulted inside a caravan at the Club Habitat
Holiday Park last Wednesday.
Her mother had returned to the caravan to find it locked and
she saw a man on top of her daughter.
Police have described the attack as sexually motivated, and a
team of 20 are investigating while she recovers in Waikato
Hospital.
Detective Inspector Mark Roper said today the scene
examination was completed on Christmas Eve, and several items
were undergoing forensic analysis.
"It is still early days, but we have maintained a strong
focus over Christmas and are making some good progress.
"We do have some persons of interest and we remain optimistic
that we will resolve this investigation."
The girl was steadily improving, but police had yet to
interview her, and had no immediate plans to do so because
her welfare had to take priority.
Police would not comment further on the lines of enquiry or
the forensic analysis, because doing so could jeopardise the
investigation.
"Although we are progressing well we still want to hear from
anyone who hasn't contacted us yet and who has information
that may assist us," said Det Insp Loper.
Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is
asked to contact Taupo Police Station on 07 378 6060.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via
Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
