Police are investigating reports a man grabbed a boy in Barwon Heads

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said “investigators had been told the man grabbed the boy on the arm”.

Von Nida Ave Barwon Heads

Parents are on high alert following reports a man assaulted a boy in a Bellarine tourist town.

Police are investigating the incident in Barwon Heads where it’s believed a boy was approached by the man while walking along Von Nida Ave about 9.40am on Tuesday.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said “investigators have been told the man grabbed the boy on the arm”.

The boy was able to escape the man’s grip, before running to safety.

The police investigation remains ongoing.

The incident comes just months after a trio of men allegedly attempted to lure two young girls into a car in Barwon Heads.

In that October incident, it’s understood two girls, including an 11-year-old, were walking along Flinders Pde, near Ozone Rd, about 4pm when they were stopped by a silver SUV with three men inside.

The men allegedly said they had a child in their car the same age as the girls and asked for their phone numbers.

The girls did not reply and kept walking.

The car continued driving before stopping again near the girls.

The men allegedly said they had lollipops in their car, in what’s believed to be an attempt to lure them inside.

The incident prompted Barwon Heads Primary School principal Rob Bennetts to issue a warning to parents.

“Unfortunately, on the weekend a person tried to lure one of our students into a car,” he said in an email.

“This is a timely reminder to be vigilant about this sort of behaviour.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report at www.crimestoppers.com.au.

Originally published as Police are investigating reports a man grabbed a boy in Barwon Heads