Children run the risk of abduction if they go trick or treating unsupervised, Colchester police have warned.
Although the crime is extremely rare, parents are being encouraged to remember the possible dangers, to make sure that youngsters enjoy a safe Hallowe'en tonight.
Crime Reduction Officer Colin Stiff said: "Obviously children walking around in the dark, going down badly-lit passageways, are putting themselves at risk.
Be safe, not sorry! - crime reduction officer Colin Stiff, launches the safety campaign for Hallowe'en and Guy Fawkes' night. Picture: NIGEL BROWN (24488-1)
"It only takes a few seconds to abduct somebody and that's the last thing we want to happen in Colchester, or anywhere."
He added: "What I want to do is remind parents and guardians of their obligations with regard to not letting their children out in unsupervised groups doing trick or treating.
"Some youngsters go trick or treating with parents or older brothers or sisters but there are people who let young children out unsupervised."
Police are also urging children and adults to be sensible with fireworks.
The Be Safe, Not Sorry campaign is aimed at preventing firework injuries and anti-social behaviour.
Published Thursday October 31, 2002
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