Detectives believe a child abduction reported in Colchester probably did not happen.
Two children told police they saw a young girl being snatched by a man in the Collingwood Road area of Lexden.
But Det Sgt Mark Watson, of Colchester CID, said: "It would now appear unlikely that whatever they saw was a genuine abduction."
He said they have not ruled out a child being snatched, but the investigation, started after a report on Monday afternoon, has been scaled down.
He added: "We are keeping an open mind, although I can confirm that since the report we have had no other sightings of the person that we were given a description of.
"No-one reported a child missing at about that time or since then.
"There is nothing to substantiate anything untoward and the investigation has been scaled down on that basis."
Anyone with information can call Colchester police on 01206 762212 and ask for CID
Published Thursday August 12, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article