Attempt to abduct woman on her way to work

Police are hunting for a man who attempted to abduct a 19-year-old Nelson woman as she walked to work early today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Wayne McCoy said the woman was walking along Vickerman Street around 5am when the incident occurred.

She had been dropped off by a taxi about 200m from work when an attempt was made to force her to get into a car.

A man had pulled up beside her, got out of his car and grabbed her round her neck.

He then attempted to drag her into his vehicle.

Two of the woman's work associates saw what was happening and confronted the man, who let go of the woman.

Mr McCoy said the man, who was not known to the woman, was described as Maori, of short, stocky build, and aged early to mid 20s.

A witness described the car as a red and gold 1996 Isuzu 4WD, registration number CGL345.

A vehicle matching this description was stolen last night from the Riwaka Hotel.

Anybody with information is asked to contact police immediately.

- NZPA