Police appeal after attempted child abduction in Milton Keynes

Thames Valley Police are stepping up patrols in the area folowing the incident at around 4.45pm yesterday (February 18) in Netherfield.

The two-year-old child was walking along Broadlands with his mother, two other children and another woman.

The offender walked past the group, before holding the hand of the child and saying "come on".

The mother then took hold of the child and pulled him towards her, before the man walked off, in the direction of a grass area towards Farthing Grove.

The offender is described as a black man aged in his mid-20s, around 5ft 4in and of a skinny build.

He was dressed in a black-coloured jacket and jogging bottoms, and had on his back a black rucksack. He also wore a dark-coloured woolly hat.

Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Laura Herrington, of Milton Keynes police station, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this incident, it occurred in a public area at a time when I believe it is likely that people who were in the area may have seen what happened.

“If anyone believes they were in the area at around this time and thinks they saw something, or has any information regarding this incident, I would ask them to contact Thames Valley Police.

“Thankfully there were no injuries during this incident and the boy remained with his mother, but I am still appealing for help in locating witnesses to the incident, or anyone who recognises the description of the offender.

“While I appreciate that incidents such as this will cause concern, I would like to reassure the public that we are investigating this incident thoroughly. You may also notice an increased police presence as we carrying out additional patrols in the area. We would urge anyone with information to call Thames Valley Police on 101, or make a report online, quoting reference number 43200056921."

You can also remain anonymous and call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.