Napier Police say three incidents have been reported in the past 3 days of males trying to entice children into vehicles.
Two incidents involve a similarly described male.
One incident occurred in Maadi Rd on Tuesday afternoon, the other on the cnr of Kennedy Rd and Wycliffe St on Wednesday afternoon.
Both these
occurred at around 3.15pm after school.
Both of these children approached were 12 years old, one a male and one a female.
The offender has in both instances quite forcefully told them to get into the car, fortunately both children have gone for help.
This man is described as caucasian, 40-50 years wearing a dark beanie and a hooded sweatshirt.
The vehicle used is different on both occasions, described as a red car and a blue/green sedan.
Det. Sen. Sgt Nick Reid said Napier Police has been able to link these two incidents despite the difference in vehicle description as the wording of the direction to get into the car has been the same on both occasions.
The third incident occurred at 3 pm on Wednesday in Te Awa Ave where an 8 year old boy was approached by a caucasian male in a silver flat deck ute who asked if he wanted a ride.
"These incidents are of serious concern to Police as it only takes one child to go with these strangers and place themselves at serious risk. We will be liaising with local schools to raise the awareness of staff and pupils," said Det. Sen. Sgt Nick Reid.
The Police would like to hear from any members of the public who may have witnessed any of these incidents or know who the offenders are to contact the Napier Police on 8310700 or on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
