Two of the incidents were reported to have taken place on Friday, 30 April between 4pm and 4.30pm In Whitmore Road, an 11-year-old boy was approached by a man in a black van who asked him if he wanted a lift, while an 8-year-old boy was reportedly approached in the wooded area of Kelsey Park. A further report was received on Thursday, 6 May after a male pupil reported to staff at his school that he had been followed in the street by a man the previous day. The lack of similarities in this report indicates that it was not linked to the first two reports. On Friday, 7 May, we received a third party report of a perceived attempted abduction of a little girl in The Glades shopping centre, Bromley. Two males were said to have been walking behind the child when one seemingly went to grab the girl’s hand – which was raised in the air – before walking off. Again, there is nothing to suggest this is linked to any of the other incidents. No children were abducted or harmed in any of the four reported incidents. Superintendent Andy Brittain, of the Met’s South Area Command said: “When we are made aware of potential incidents of this kind, we investigate them thoroughly. “I am aware of varying reports online both in the news and on social media and I fully understand the concerns of parents in light of these reports. “I would encourage the public to remain vigilant, but not to be unduly alarmed. Child kidnappings or abductions are, thankfully, incredibly rare, but we are not complacent. “In order to provide reassurance to the community we have heightened our visible presence in areas where youngsters may gather and I urge anyone who feels worried or concerned to approach my officers. “In addition, please be assured that if we have reason to believe that there is a specific danger we will make sure that our communities are fully aware immediately. “I would strongly encourage members of the public to approach our officers if they have any concerns or have any information that could prove to be beneficial to our investigations.” Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Tweet @MetCC. In an emergency always dial 999. To remain 100% anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers_uk.org.
