Police are still searching for a man they believe tried to sexually assault a teenage Hastings girl, who escaped only by quickly using her self-defence training.
The 16-year-old was on Caroline Rd, Mahora, last Thursday when a man on a bicycle stopped and made "inappropriate" comments, Detective Jeff Foley said.
The teen, however, managed to escape the dangerous situation, which occurred about 4.30pm, by putting her self-defence training to use, kneeing the offender in the groin and punching him in the face.
Mr Foley praised the girl's defensive capabilities, saying young people, especially females, should be aware of personal safety and know what to do if they are approached or attacked.
Police are looking for a male thought to be 20- to 30-years-old and of medium height and build, who was wearing an "oversized" black hoody.