Three children approached by suspicious male male

Around midday on Saturday a large, black car pulled up close to an 11-year-old boy at Rampart Street in the Shankill area of Lurgan.

A man inside the car put the window down and looked at the young boy who ran off, according to the PSNI.

Police received a second report that a large black car stopped close to two girls, aged 10 and nine years old in Deeny Drive in the Kilwilkee area on the same day.

A man got out of the car and gestured for the girls to come over. The girls did not approach the man who was wearing dark clothing and they ran off.

This incident happened sometime between 7 and 7.30pm.

Police have reminded parents to speak to their children about stranger danger.

SDLP Councillor Declan McAlinden said it was a very worrying development that three children were approached by strangers.

Cllr McAlinden urged parents to be “very vigilant particularly of strange vehicles in their area and also on these dark nights”.

The SDLP man said it was important for children to be taught the dangers of strangers.

Sgt Duncan McBain, Lurgan Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “It is important that these incidents are looked at in perspective however all parents should speak to their children about the importance of keeping safe and not speaking to strangers.

“In these instances the children did the right thing and left the area the moment they became uncomfortable.

“We are conducting enquiries to ascertain the identity of the male and his business in the area.

“If you would like more advice on stranger danger and talking to your children, or have information in relation to these incidents please contact the neighbourhood team in Lurgan on 0845 600 8000.”