Police are investigating after four reported incidents where children may have been approached, though not harmed.

Detectives have urged people to be vigilant and have increased their visible presence in the areas in Bromley where they are said to have occurred.

Two of the incidents were reported to have taken place on Friday, April 30, between 4pm and 4.30pm.

In Whitmore Road, an 11-year-old boy was approached by a man in a black van who asked him if he wanted a lift, while an eight-year-old boy was reportedly approached in the wooded area of Kelsey Park.

A further report was received on Thursday, May 6 after a pupil reported to staff at his school that he had been followed in the street by a man the previous day, though police are not linking this to the first two reports.

Yesterday, a person told police they believed they witnesses an attempted abduction of a little girl in The Glades shopping centre, Bromley. Two men were said to have been walking behind the child when one seemingly went to grab the girl’s hand - which was raised in the air – before walking off.

However, police have stressed it is unlikely to be linked to any of the other incidents.

No children were abducted or harmed in any of the incidents.

Supt Andy Brittain, of the Met's South Area Command, said: “When we are made aware of potential incidents of this kind, we investigate them thoroughly.

“I would encourage the public to remain vigilant, but not to be unduly alarmed. Child kidnappings or abductions are, thankfully, incredibly rare, but we are not complacent.

"In order to provide reassurance to the community we have heightened our visible presence in areas where youngsters may gather and I urge anyone who feels worried or concerned to approach my officers.

“In addition, please be assured that if we have reason to believe that there is a specific danger we will make sure that our communities are fully aware immediately.

“I would strongly encourage members of the public to approach our officers if they have any concerns or have any information that could prove to be beneficial to our investigations.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Tweet @MetCC.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers_uk.org.

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