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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Will Worley

Police urge parents in south London to 'be aware on school runs' after attempted abductions

Police have warned parents to be cautious after an apparent spate of attempted child abductions in south London

Three incidents were reported to the authorities between 7 June and 15 June in the Wimbledon and Raynes Park area.

In one incident in Wimbledon Village, a male pupil at King's College School, whose age is unknown, was approached by a man driving a white minibus. He offered the boy a lift to school and made several attempts to coax him into the vehicle. 

The child repeatedly refused and the man said: “I'll give you credit for soldiering on like that,” the Evening Standard reported.

While no children have been harmed, parents have been urged to “be aware on school runs”. 

A spokesman for the Metropolitan police told the newspaper: “Police in Merton are aware of three reports of incidents of either attempted abductions or suspicious behaviour in the borough since 7 June. There have been no people harmed during any of the reported incidents.

“To date, the descriptions of the vehicles and drivers given by the children are different and involve both male and female drivers. Patrols have been increased in the area. We are working with local authority partners to ensure appropriate personal safety advice is available.”

Police are continuing their investigations.

Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111

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