East Dorset Police Reassure Parents After Malicious Rumours

East Dorset Police have asked parents not to panic after suspicious incidents in Alderholt and Hampshire sparked unfounded Internet rumours.

Rumours have been circulating about several attempted child abductions in the area and police are keen to stress this is not the case. There was one incident in Alderholt where a child with a bike was asked if he wanted a lift home by a man in a white van, but no attempt was made to abduct the boy. There were also a few suspicious incidents in Hampshire, but again there were no attempted abductions and the police say the incidents are not linked in any way.

The police stress that any reported suspicious incidents are always investigated fully and if any serious concerns are raised they would inform local communities immediately. They are also keen to point out that rumours of unverified attempted abductions can cause unwanted and totally understandable alarm in parents.

The police are also keen to reiterate its safety message to parents and children, saying it is always wise for children to walk in groups, avoid taking unfamiliar routes or shortcuts, never to get in a car with someone they don't know and that children are always encouraged to let parents know their whereabouts at all times.