Abduction scares not linked, police confirm (From Sutton Guardian)

Abduction scares not linked, police confirm

10:27am Monday 28th May 2012 in News By Clare Buchanan

Alleged abduction attempts at schools in Kingston are not thought to be linked, police have confirmed.

Incidents at Knollmead Primary School, Tolworth, Grand Avenue Primary School, Surbiton, and Green Lane Primary School, Worcester Park, sparked concern among parents last week.

Kingston police had believed the incidents may be connected but now say this is unlikely.

Chief Superintendent Martin Greenslade, Borough Commander for Kingston, said: "I understand and share the community's deep concern and would also like to use this as a further opportunity to reassure parents that we have treated the incidents extremely seriously and have investigated them robustly.

"I would like to report that the investigation has led to the conclusion that these incidents are not linked as previously thought.”

A boy was allegedly grabbed by a man with a woolly hat at Knollmead Primary School on Monday, May 21, at about 9.10am.

However Kingston Police can say that no offences have come to light and have thanked the school community for their co-operation.

A man in a woolly hat on a bicycle was seen acting suspiciously in a car park near Green Lane Primary at about 3.10pm on Monday, May 21, but police said they believe no criminal offences were committed.

Police are still investigating an incident at Grand Avenue Primary School, Surbiton, on Thursday, May 17, when a man and woman are alleged to have approached a girl getting water from a fountain.

Councillor Patricia Bamford said: "I am very pleased to learn that there is no evidence of any connection between these three incidents.

"It is understandable that during the course of these investigations that level of concern and anxiety amongst parents and school communities has risen.

“I hope that this latest statement will allay those fears and that parents will understand the absolutely need for caution when investigating incidents involving children or other vulnerable groups.”

Police have put in place extra patrols outside schools around the borough and have thanked the community, parents and schools for their help with investigations but are urging them to remain vigilant.

For information visit met.police.uk.