Parents are being warned to be extra vigilant about their children's whereabouts during the Easter holidays after a spate of attempted abductions across mid-Essex.
In the latest incident, a man tried to drag a 16-year-old boy into fields near Heycroft Way, Great Baddow, on the evening of April 8.
An Essex Police spokesman said: "We do not wish to alarm parents. However, we would urge them to remain vigilant, particularly during the holidays, when their children could be out playing with friends."
At Great Baddow, the boy managed to break free and escape, although the man initially gave chase.
The suspect is described as white, about 5ft 10in tall and of large build. He was wearing a baseball cap, a dark heavy jacket, blue jeans and trainers. He spoke in a deep voice with a local accent.
There have been several similar incidents elsewhere in the region. Last week, a man tried to abduct two schoolchildren in the Moulsham area of Chelmsford.
Police have also issued a warning about strangers harassing children in the Heybridge and Maldon areas.
Last week, a man in his 40s took a photograph of three schoolgirls in Downs Road, although he did not approach them directly.
Pc Derek Player, of the Maldon community beat team, said: "This a precautionary warning to parents during the holidays. It is a cause for concern. We don't know if any of the incidents are linked, but one has to keep an open mind."
Published Friday, April 18, 2003
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