Boy, 10, approached in Newtownabbey

Published Thursday, 11 October 2012
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Police are investigating reports a man in a blue van approached a 10-year-old boy in Newtownabbey.

Boy, 10, approached in Newtownabbey
Police urged local people to pass on information if they have any. (© UTV)

The incident happened in the Tulleevin Walk area at around 7.45pm on Wednesday night.

It was alleged the man pulled the van up alongside the boy, who ran away.

The man has been described as 5' 6" tall and wore a black hooded top with the hood up and black bottoms, which were tucked into black boots.

The van is described as a large dark blue vehicle, possibly a Transit van.

Police are also investigating another three reports of suspicious approaches to children in Fernagh Avenue on 1 October and in Green Walk and Queens Park on 2 October.

The child did the right thing by running away and the male then drove off.

PSNI

However the descriptions of persons and vehicles involved differ so officers cannot yet be sure if all the incidents are linked.

A statement from the PSNI said: "Detectives are currently thoroughly investigating these reports and will seek to establish if there is any similarity or connection between them.

"Police would like to reassure local people that officers take all such calls or any issue relating to child safety extremely seriously.

"In addition to the comprehensive enquiries being carried out by CID, local Response and Neighbourhood officers have been increasing the frequency of their patrols around local schools and have been in direct contact with a number of schools to offer any advice or guidance they might require.

"Our local Schools Liaison Officer has also been on hand for additional support for schools.

"Targeted patrolling has also been put in place in areas around youth clubs and other places frequented by children and young people."

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with officers on 0845 600 8000.

© UTV News
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