Police satisfied no child abduction attempt made in Blantyre

Sep 30 2010 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

FEARS over reports of an attempted child abduction in Blantyre have been allayed by one of the area’s top cops.

Police investigated allegations that a male driver tried to entice a young girl into a blue vehicle last Wednesday morning, September 22.

The incident was alleged to have happened near to David Livingstone Memorial Primary at around 8.30am.

However, Inspector Andy Munro this week confirmed that police were satisfied that there was nothing to suggest any abduction attempt had actually been made.

It had been reported that the child was approached by a male in a blue car.

The male had a dog in the vehicle and asked the girl to get in the car, initial reports stated.

The girl refused and went straight to school, it was reported.

As a result, rumours circulated throughout the community with regards to the report - including on social networking sites.

But Inspector Munro explained that following extensive investigation, no evidence was found to confirm any criminal activity.

He also urged parents to remain calm, but highlighted the importance of reporting incidents to the police.

“There is nothing to suggest that any attempt was made to abduct a child near to the school,” he said.

“We have investigated the matter and are satisfied that there is no evidence that any child is at risk.

“However, we are extremely grateful for the concern from the local community and for their help in reporting the matter and letting officers investigate.”

He continued: “We have spoken to staff at nearby David Livingstone Primary, and offered our assistance in any guidance given to parents over this matter.

“There have been no further reports of incidents of this nature.”

Inspector Munro also stressed that while the investigation found no evidence of an attempted abduction, it is still important to report matters of concern to police.

He explained: “This incident may have been a misunderstanding, but we appreciate residents’ concern.

“I would encourage the local community to report these incidents to us.

“I would like people to call us and allow us to investigate, rather than not doing so for fear of giving us the wrong information.”

It is not the first time this year incidents of this nature have been reported to local police.

Last month, the Advertiser reported that an older man - described as in his eighties - approached a 13-year-old girl in Westerpark Avenue, West Craigs, on August 1.

It was reported that the man attempted to entice the teen into his silver-coloured car.

Other reports of similar incidents included attempts made by a male - also described as driving a silver car - attempting to entice female children into his vehicle in Larkhall.

If anyone has any information relating to these incidents, or would like to report other similar matters to police, they should contact Hamilton Police on 483300, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, where calls are free and anonymity can be maintained.