rika Kacicova was last seen leaving her Sheffield home on seven days ago (South Yorkshire Police)
rika Kacicova was last seen leaving her Sheffield home on seven days ago (South Yorkshire Police)

Police searching for missing 13-year-old Erika Kacicova have arrested a 37-year-old man on suspicion of child abduction.

Police said the man was arrested by a West Yorkshire Police officer working to help trace the missing Sheffield teenager.

He has been taken into custody and questioned on suspicion of child abduction. Police said the arrest followed the "numerous calls" they received following their appeals for information.

Erika has been missing from her home in Sheffield since 5 August. Around 50 officers are now taking part in the search for the girl, who is believed to be with people she knows.

A 22-year-old man from Bradford who was previously arrested on suspicion of child abduction has been released on bail.

The family of the missing girl have urged their daughter to return home and are said to be "distraught" at her disappearance.

The family said in an public appeal: "Erika, you are not in trouble, we just need to know you are okay and where you are. We miss you."

The latest arrest arrived after police released a new photo of the girl as part of their appeal for information in finding her.

Det insp Helen Tate said: "We have had various sightings of Erika today, but as of yet, none have been confirmed.

"It is out of character for Erika to be away from home for so long. We are getting increasingly concerned for her welfare as time goes on.

"Erika is only 13, she is young and a normal teenager, who listens to music and spends time with her family and friends. We want her to return safe and well.

"We have around 50 police officers and staff working hard day and night in a bid to find her.

"We've received dozens of calls from members of the public, some in West Yorkshire and some to us here in Sheffield. Please keep these calls coming in. We will look into any information you can give."

Tate concluded by pleading: "Erika, if you are reading this, please let us know you are okay. You're not in any trouble; we just need to know you are safe and well."

Erika is described as being around 4ft 11ins tall, eastern European, of slim build, with long, dark-brown, straight hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing dark blue jeans and a denim short-sleeved top over a pink Adidas zip up hoodie.

The hoodie has yellow stripes down the arms and a white Adidas motif on the front . She was also wearing denim-style ankle boots.

Erika speaks Slovakian and English, with an Eastern European accent.

Anyone with information regarding Erika's whereabouts should contact South Yorkshire Police on 101.