A 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted abduction after allegedly approaching Lambeth schoolchildren.
He has been taken into custody at a south London police station.
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 do not have a definitive description of the man/men or the vehicle involved.
Officers are actively engaging with local schools and are asking and parents/carers to remain vigilant and to report any concerns to the police.
Patrols in the local area have been increased both before and after school whilst 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 Ming Xia, with thanks
