Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Greg Johnson, Kaikohe Police
Police would like the acknowledge the efforts of quick-thinking local residents who came to the rescue following a frightening incident overnight in Whirinaki, Northland.
Two females were walking home at around 1am when they spotted a vehicle parked in their driveway.
The male occupant in the vehicle asked the girls for directions and then allegedly attempted to grab the females and pull them into his vehicle.
One of the females was grabbed by the wrists while the other female has run for help.
Local residents from Pa Te Aroha Marae came to assist and followed the male who drove away from the area.
The residents caught the male who was held until Police arrived a short time later.
A 69 year old male is in custody and undergoing a medical assessment. Charges are likely.
Police would like to thank the local residents for their part in assisting to locate the offender and preventing the potential for any further offending.
ENDS
Nick Baker/NZ Police