Man approaching children across Canberra

ACT Policing is investigating a child being followed by a man in a vehicle in Yarralumla.

At about 1.30pm Sunday (3 June 2018) the child was riding a bicycle on Bentham Street, Yarralumla when a man followed him into the drop off area of a nearby school and then watched the child for some time.

The child felt threatened and sought assistance from a nearby group of people. The man then drove away.

The child informed his mother of the incident and she contacted police.

Police are investigating several reports of incidents in Canberra suburbs where children have been approached by a man attempting to entice them into a vehicle before and after school.

ACT Policing Superintendent South District Stephen Turnbull said as a result of these reports people may notice an increased police presence at some schools.

“We want to stress to parents and guardians the importance of immediately reporting any unusual approaches on 131444 or in the case of emergency 000,” he said.

“It should be noted the vehicle is not always the same and it a good time to remind your child about what they should do if they are approached by a stranger.”

ACT Policing is working closely with the Education Directorate to reinforce messages around stranger safety in schools. More information on ways to stay safe is available on the Constable Kenny website http://www.constablekenny.org.au/.

Police are urging anyone who may have any information that could assist police to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.

Please quote reference 6273088. Information can be provided anonymously.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au