New Zealand on alert for abducted child

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, July 16 (UPI) -- New Zealand police say they have put the border on high alert as they continue to look for an abducted child.

Five-year-old Cina Ma, also known as Xin Xin, was abducted from outside her Auckland family home last week, with officials remaining close-mouthed about whether a ransom has been demanded or other information, The Dominion Post reported Wednesday.

But a 30-member police team has been working through a large number of leads and has been offered a range of resources, including help from overseas, said Detective Inspector Steve Wood. He would not elaborate on whether officers were dealing directly with Chinese officials, but noted that airports around the country were on alert.

The girl's parents are separated and there is also speculation that she could have been kidnapped in retaliation for a business deal that may have gone wrong, the report said. Police say they haven't ruled out any suspects.

"Our No 1 priority is focused on finding this child and ensuring that Xin Xin gets back to her parents safely and unharmed," said Wood.