A LOCAL police officer investigating an attempted child abduction in West Belfast has urged people to be cautious as police continue their inquiries.
The incident took place last Thursday (February 20) afternoon when two men approached a young girl and boy who were playing in the area of Forfar Street and an attempt was made to get the young boy into a green car which was parked at the corner of Forfar Street and Elswick Street.
The attempt failed and the two men are believed to have driven off in the vehicle up Elswick Street.
One of the males was wearing blue tracksuit bottoms and a black hat. The second male was wearing a green coat and had brown hair. Both are believed to be approximately 30 years old.
Police are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and have appealed to anyone who was in the area around this time and who may have seen the two males or the vehicle to contact them.
“I am conscious that this report has caused a degree of concern among parents,” said Detective Inspector Jenna Fitzpatrick, “and I can assure the community that we as a police service are taking it very seriously and are carrying out a number of enquiries. I would also stress that while incidents of this nature are rare, we consider it good sense for everyone to engage in sensible, measured conversation around the issue, raising awareness without causing fear.”
Anyone with information about the incident can contact police at Grosvenor on 0845 600 8000. Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.
