Suspected child snatchers have reportedly been targeting school children in Lambeth.
Detectives in Lambeth are investigating three separate reports of a man or men approaching school children and suggesting the children go with them.
The first incident involved a 10-year-old girl who was approached by a man on January 15 at around 5pm in Sancroft Street, SE11.
The second incident took place on January 20 at around 7:20am in Kennington Lane, SE11 – here an 11-year-old girl was approached by two men who were believed to be driving a white car.
The third incident occurred yesterday, January 21 at around 8:30am also in Kennington Lane, SE11, where a 16-year-old girl was approached by a man.
Detectives are linking the incidents based on the similarities of all three but at this stage there is no definitive description of the man/men or the vehicle involved.
Officers are actively engaging with schools and are asking and parents/carers to remain vigilant and to report any concerns to the police.
Patrols in the area have been increased both before and after school while enquiries continue.
Chief Inspector Nick Collins, from Lambeth Borough, said: “Officers from Lambeth are currently investigating the incidents and are still trying to determine whether the same man or men were involved in all three.
“Whilst we do not wish to cause alarm I would ask the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us.
“I understand that the community will be concerned about these recent incidents and I want to reassure parents and carers that we are treating this extremely seriously.
“Officers are working hard to identify the suspect/s wanted and enquiries into these incidents continue.
“As a precaution we have increased patrols in the area and are talking to local schools.
“I would also ask parents and carers to take the opportunity to remind their children how to stay safe and not to go with strangers.”
Picture courtesy of Ray Forster, with thanks
