Police are conducting inquiries after the alleged attempted abduction of two boys in Port Macquarie on Monday.
About 7.10pm four children aged 11 to 14 were playing in the street outside their respective home in Gilmore Street, Port Macquarie.
A man approached the children and asked directions to a nearby street. All four children provided directions, but the man continued to ask questions.
The man paid particular attention to two boys aged 11 and 12, allegedly putting his arm around them and offering them money to escort him to the other street.
The two other children, both girls, yelled out to a parent, who contacted police. The man left before officers arrived.
Police from Mid North Coast Local Area Command now wish to speak with a man who they believe can help with their inquiries.
The man has been described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his late 30s, about 168cm tall, with a medium build and short brown hair. At the time, he was wearing a navy-and-red coloured jumper, board shorts and thongs.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or any suspicious activity should contact Port Macquarie Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Meanwhile, the incident has again prompted police to encourage parents to discuss the “Safe People, Safe Places” messages with their children, including:
- Avoid walking on your own and instead walk with other family members, friends or an adult they know when going to and from school;
- Walk near busier roads and streets, or use paths where there are lots of other people;
- Make sure your parents or another adult you know knows where you are at all times;
- Always walk straight home or to the place you are walking to;
- Know where safe places are — a shop, service station, police station, library or school. If you are ever frightened, you should go to one of these places and ask them to call the police;
- Learn about safe adults you can look for and talk to if you need help — police officers, teachers at school, adults you know and trust;
- Don’t talk to people you don’t know and never get into a car with someone you don’t know. If a car stops on the side of the road and you don’t know the person inside, do not stop; and
- If you are scared and can use a phone, call 000 and tell them you are scared.
