Police investigate after kids walking to school ‘verbally harassed’

Children walking to their primary school in the inner north were approached by an unknown man who “verbally harassed” them and fled before cops could nab him.

Faceless unknown and unrecognisable man with hood in dark room, spooky criminal person.

Police are investigating after children walking to their primary school in the inner north were approached by an unknown man.

The Brunswick North Primary students were near Anstey Station and Albion St before school when a man approached yesterday morning.

Victoria Police confirmed it was investigating a report that an unknown man “verbally harassed a number of students”.
The children were not physically injured and when police arrived, the man was gone.

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Brunswick North Primary School notice to parents about a man approaching children before school yesterday. Picture: Supplied

In a letter to families, principal Sonia Abdallah said the school was “very proud of the student’s response and actions, as they informed us immediately when they arrived at school which allowed us to alert the police and their parents promptly”.

She encouraged families to talk with their children about walking or riding to school, and what to do if they feel unsafe.

Parents were also urged to contact police or the school if they noticed behaviour in the community that concerned them.

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A Department of Education spokesman said schools were “responsible for reporting incidences to the Department and to Victoria Police”.

“There is nothing more important than keeping our students safe and schools have a number of measures in place to respond to stranger danger incidences.”

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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