Parents and caregivers in Hamilton are being warned to be vigilant after an attempted child abduction.
The attempted abduction occurred in Chartwell's Amethyst Ave shortly before 6pm on Tuesday, Detective Sergeant Kris Clarke of Hamilton police said.
"A man driving a dark blue car has grabbed a 12-year-old girl by the arm as she walked past and pulled her into his car.
"As he has gone around the front of the vehicle to get into the driver's side door, the quick thinking girl has managed to escape and raise the alarm."
Mrs Clarke said the girl's parents, police and partner agencies were treating the matter very seriously, and police were asking for the public to help them locate the alleged offender or his car.
The man was described as a Caucasian of medium build, aged between 45 and 50. His car was described as a dark blue four-door vehicle with dents to its rear.
"Police are reminding parents and caregivers of the importance of discussing the issue of stranger danger to their children and of the value of their children being supervised or advising parents where they are or where they are going at all times," Mr Clarke said.
Information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.