South Metro Junior Football League issue alert after attempted child abduction in Brighton East

A junior footy league is warning to parents to be “extra vigilant” following reports of a young boy allegedly being approached by a man.

Victoria Police is investigating reports of a man allegedly approaching a 10-year-old boy at a football ground in Brighton East on Saturday. Picture: iStock

Parents connected to a junior football league in Melbourne’s southeast have been urged to stay “extra vigilant” following an alleged attempted child abduction over the weekend.

Victoria Police is investigating reports of a man allegedly approaching a 10-year-old boy in Brighton East on Saturday.

It is understood the boy was at Hurlingham Park at the time of the incident, the home ground for the East Brighton Vampires Junior Football Club.

“Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are investigating a report that a man approached a 10-year-old boy in Brighton East,” a Victoria Police spokeswoman said.

“Police were told the man did not attempt to touch the boy and drove off about 2pm.”

While police were not able to share any further details about the incident, investigators are believed to have reviewed CCTV footage as part of their inquiries.

The alarm was sounded throughout the South Metro Junior Football League following the alleged incident, with clubs being urged to be on high alert.

“The SMJFL would like to advise that earlier today there was an abduction attempt at Hurlingham Park,” the statement reads.

“We are letting you know as we ask that you be extra vigilant today at your clubs. Thankfully, the child is safe.

“On behalf of everyone involved in the league, we are thinking of East Brighton and their community after this horrible incident.”

Football fixtures appeared unaffected on Sunday morning, with junior footy matches going ahead at Hurlingham Park.

At least one unmarked police vehicle was seen driving in the streets around the park.

The East Brighton Vampires Junior Football Club and the South Metro Junior Football League were contacted for comment.

Originally published as South Metro Junior Football League issue alert after attempted child abduction in Brighton East