Police are investigating a report of a six year old boy being approached by a man in the area of Harcroft Meadows at about 8.30am on Monday 11th June 2012.  However, they are keen to allay fears in the community that there has been a sudden increase in similar incidents in the area.
 
The man is described as white, aged between 30 and 50 years, about 5’6” tall, with shoulder length dark greasy hair which was greying, wearing spectacles.  He was of unkempt appearance and was wearing a tan coloured “Barbour” style coat and blue washed out denim jeans.  He left the area riding an old style bicycle, which is possibly red in colour.
 
Police are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen someone matching this description in the area of Harcroft Meadows or Lheannag Park either on Monday morning or at any other time.
 
Inspector Phil Shimmin, head of the Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:-  “This enquiry is ongoing and a number of lines of enquiry are being pursued.  A number of individuals have been spoken to since Monday in order to eliminate them from this investigation.  I cannot expand on the nature of some of our enquiries for operational reasons but I wish to reassure people that the Police are treating this investigation seriously and with regard for the safety of the community.  Local officers have in fact been conducting extra patrols of the area with a view to identifying the man in question.  I am also aware that the incident has been the subject of some discussion on social media websites.  This has resulted in significant speculation as to who may be responsible.  I would appeal to the public not to name individuals who they believe may be responsible as this may have legal ramifications.  If anyone does know who the man described is, please contact Police Headquarters or Crimestoppers. Matters such as this are serious, but rumour and conjecture can rapidly take hold and result in disproportionate concern.
 
In the meantime, basic good parenting is all that is required, by keeping an eye on your children for their day to day safety. Stranger Danger and Road Safety messages are ones we should be always reminding our children about in any case ”.