Published Friday, 12 October 2012
A community worker said fear has spread over the incidents. (© UTV)
In the most recent incident a 10-year-old boy ran away after a man in a blue van allegedly pulled up alongside him in the Tulleevin Walk area, at around 7.45pm on Wednesday.
It follows reported approaches to another three children in Fernagh Avenue on 1 October and in Green Walk and Queens Park on 2 October.
Phil Hamilton told UTV local parents are living in fear.
"Within the local community a fear factor has set in," he explained.
"Parents are afraid to let their young people go out and play. Parents are absolutely petrified as well that something might happen if they don't keep tabs on their young.
"The fear factor is there and everyone is nervous."
Mr Hamilton said there has also been "frustration and anger" over the PSNI response.
He continued: "Police need to be coming forward to the community to give us the information but there is a frustration within the community about the response. Questions need to be asked. Why did it take days since the first incident to interview the victim?"
A statement from the PSNI on Thursday said they are "thoroughly investigating" the reports and are working to establish if they are linked.
"Police would like to reassure local people that officers take all such calls or any issue relating to child safety extremely seriously," it continued.
"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."
The man who reportedly pulled up beside the 10-year-old was described as 5' 6" tall and wore a black hooded top with the hood up and black bottoms, which were tucked into black boots.
Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with police on 0845 600 8000.