Authorities are expanding their search efforts for missing real estate agent

PHOTO: Tingjun Cao, 52, is accused of murdering Christchurch real estate agent Yanfei Bao. CHRIS SKELTON/STUFF

The search for the missing real estate agent Yanfei Bao has expanded to encompass three new areas in Canterbury, as detailed in a police statement:

Waterholes Rd and Robinsons Rd, Rolleston
Spalling Road and Te Kuru Wetland, Halswell
Haul Road, McLeans Island

Although the Greenpark area will not be searched today, there is potential for future search activity in that vicinity. Yanfei Bao, aged 44, was last seen on July 19 on Trevor St in Hornby, Christchurch, during a meeting with a prospective client. Tingjun Cao, a Chinese national who arrived in New Zealand in March, was apprehended at Christchurch Airport on July 22 and initially charged with kidnapping. On August 15, an additional charge of murder was levied against Cao, who has pleaded not guilty to both charges and is presently in custody.

Christchurch Police initiate fresh search for Yanfei Bao

A case review hearing is scheduled for November 10, with a tentative trial date set for October 21, 2024. Individuals possessing information relevant to the police investigation are urged to contact 105 or submit a report online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 using the ‘Update Report’ option and referencing file number 230720/5911.