After two reported child approaches in the same area within a week, local schools are urging parents to talk to their children about stranger safety and to supervise them closely over Halloween this weekend.
Police are investigating after a man allegedly approached children in Manly Vale and Allambie Heights. They were told an unknown man in a vehicle approached and attempted to speak with a child on Nyrang Road, Allambie Heights, about 4.30pm on Monday 26 October.
It follows a report that a man approached and attempted to speak with a child at an oval in Manly Vale between 4.45pm and 5pm on Thursday 22 October. Manly Observer was told the man approached a nine-year-old boy in the car park at David Thomas Reserve and asked him to go with him. The boy did not know the man and ran back to the field to tell his mother.
Officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command confirmed they are investigating both incidents. Police have not said whether they are linked nor issued any description. We understand some homes have been canvassed for CCTV footage of the white vehicle in the second incident.
In an email to parents, Manly Vale Public School principal Tina Lee said two recent incidents had occurred locally, the the most recent involving a man in a white vehicle approached children, offering them lollies and a lift in his car.
Ms Lee asked parents to talk to their children about walking in groups to and from school. She also asked them to reinforce the “No, Go, Tell” strategy taught in child protection lessons: say no to continuing the conversation, immediately leave the situation, and find a trusted adult to tell.
Allambie Heights Public School also wrote to parents, saying it was aware of primary school-aged children being approached after school on Monday. The principal Scott Osborne said teachers had spoken with students about personal safety and asked families to reinforce the message at home.
Both schools asked parents to supervise children while trick-or-treating this weekend.
Anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
