HUNDREDS of parents from the wider Saintfield area have been warned to keep a close eye on their children following reports of three attempted abductions in recent days.
Letters and text messages have been sent to parents with children attending a number of local schools following reports that a person in a van and a car had attempted to lure children into their vehicle.
It is understood that two children of secondary school age were approached in the Ballynahinch Road area of Saintfield last week, while a child of primary school age was also approached in the village at a different time.
Police in Saintfield have spoken to staff of local schools about child safety following the reports of what they termed “suspicious activity.”
Officers said they had received information about one particular vehicle that has caused concern. They said enquiries into this vehicle, which is reported to be silver in colour, continue although the incidents remained “unconfirmed.”
“As is normal practice when parents or school staff raise concern over this type of issue, local officers ensure appropriate advice and guidance is given,” a police spokesman said.
“This advice can then be passed on to any children in the area concerned. As always, we would encourage anyone to contact police if they become concerned for a child’s safety.”
Children in local schools were also warned not to respond to approaches made by anyone in a white van with blue writing.
Mrs. Mary Kennedy, principal of St. Mary’s Primary School, Saintfield, said she had been approached by the area’s community police and asked to alert parents about attempted abductions in the area by somebody in a white van with blue writing and a silver car.
She said she regularly speaks to children about safety issues and was able to broach the subject in a way that would not cause alarm, while ensuring their safety.
She said the police had also asked that parents also be informed about the incidents.
“I spoke to the children on Thursday and also texted parents immediately,” she said.
“We do not want to frighten anyone but it is important to keep the children safe and it is important that parents are aware of any potential incidents.
“By informing children we are empowering them.”
Mr. Steven Moore, principal of Academy Primary School in Saintfield, said he too had informed children and parents of the incidents and said that that was an important step to take as a “responsible school.”
“We have to take these things seriously,” he said.
Ms. Vivien Watt, from Saintfield High School, said she too had dealt with the matter as advised, while Darragh Cross Community Association has also issued a circular to parents following consultation by police, alerting residents to the potential dangers.