The Acting Area Commander for North Shore Police Inspector Gary Davey has described the abduction on Monday of Xin Xin Ma as a parent's worst nightmare.
"As a parent I empathise with the family and relatives of this little girl. I understand their feeling and thoughts at this time," he said.
"I also understand the community's concerns when an incident has taken place such as the abduction of Xin Xin here in Harrowglen two days ago."
"Thankfully incidents of abduction are rare in New Zealand."
"In my five years on the North Shore this is unprecedented. My heart goes out to the family, and the community who reside in this locality."
"I know everyone on the North Shore and throughout New Zealand will be sharing the personal pain being experienced by the MA family. This includes all police staff, especially those who are currently engaged in the operation to get Xin Xin back to her family safely and unharmed."
"The North Shore prides itself in being one of the safest cities in New Zealand."
"There is no reason why this incident should affect this status."
"The Chinese community here on the North Shore make a great effort at retaining their culture, while emerging with our own New Zealand culture."
"I can understand your concerns about safety. Police are here to protect you. We are your police. Numerous Chinese are now joining New Zealand Police. There are now more than 100 throughout New Zealand."
"Police have the same number of patrols continuing with the business as usual to ensure North Shore City remains the safest city in New Zealand."
"I encourage the media and members of the public to be patient. We are doing everything we can to ensure Xin Xin will be safe and unharmed."
"I further encourage the media to report responsibly, as a child's life is at stake," Inspector Davey said.
"Anyone with information on the whereabouts of this missing girl is asked to contact the North Shore CIB urgently. The number to call is at North Shore Policing Centre on 09 477 5000, OR the confidential text line on 027 27 27 699,"
ENDS;
Kevin [Kev] Loughlin
District Communications Manager / Media Advisor
Waitemata Police District
Phone 09 488 9758 - Extn 96308 / Mobile 027 281 0271
Email - kevin.loughlin@police.govt.nz