Abduction attempts concern police

– Alison Noonan
TWO attempted abductions in one week in Hampton Park have prompted a police warning for children to be wary of strangers.
The most recent incident occurred about 5.10pm on Friday after a man approached a 12-year-old boy as he rode his bike along Laura Drive.
Police believe the man pulled up next to the boy in an old-style light blue Holden Commodore and asked him for help to find his lost dog. The boy refused his requests to get in the car and rode away.
The car followed the boy up the road but lost him after he cut through a nearby park.
The man is described as of south east Asian appearance, about 40 years old with black curly hair and a black moustache.
Friday’s incident followed the attempted abduction of an 11-year-old girl as she walked home from the Hampton Park Library about 1.30pm on Saturday, 1 April.
Police said the girl was walking along Somerville Road when she was approached from behind by a man who placed his hand over her mouth and tried to grab her.
The girl pushed him away and ran back towards the library on Stuart Avenue.
The man is described as Caucasian with tanned skin, about 30 years old, 174 centimetres, of solid build, with partially grey beard stubble, and wearing fingerless gloves and a grey hooded jumper with the hood pulled over his head.
Detective Sergeant at Cranbourne CIU Larry Grimshaw said he did not believe the two incidents were connected, but said they were still of great concern to police.
“We are treating this very seriously,” he said. “This is a warning for kids to do the right thing and heed the stranger danger warnings.
“Do not hop into a strangers car, and if you are concerned yell loudly, run straight to the nearest house or contact police.
“Parents need to make sure they teach their kids what to do if confronted by strangers and if residents see anything suspicious (they should) contact police immediately.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Cranbourne CIU on 5995 4577.