A primary school boy used a stick to fight off a would-be abductor in Christchurch yesterday.
The boy was grabbed from behind by a male, possibly in his teens, as he walked along Elmwood Drive in the Prebbleton area about 5pm, police say.
The offender attempted to drag the boy to a vehicle, waiting on Elmwood Drive.
"We understand the boy has managed to grab a stick and fight back and managed to break free and run to his home nearby," Detective Sergeant Craig Farrant said.
The offender is believed to have run off.
Police say the offender may be linked to a red four-door sports vehicle, and they are appealing for information from anyone who saw a red car in the area yesterday afternoon.
"We are anxious to hear of any sightings of vehicles or activity in the area around Elmwood Dr and Prebbleton School late yesterday afternoon," Ms Farrant said.
"At this stage this appears to be a one-off incident, and we do not believe there is any cause for residents to be concerned.
"However we also urge residents to continue to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to police."
The boy was not injured in the incident.
Anyone with information should call Christchurch Police on 03 363 7400 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
