A 10-year-old boy was reportedly "grabbed" by a man in a balaclava in Aveley.
Essex Police are investigating after the boy was approached by a man wearing a balaclava who grabbed his arm near the junction of Shannon Way and Teviot Avenue, Aveley, at about 8.15am yesterday (Monday 19 January).
The boy got away from the man, who then left the scene, and informed a family member and police shortly afterwards.
According to Essex Police, the man reportedly left with another man in what has been described as a light coloured medium BMW hatchback, with a small dent near the passenger-side brake light.
The direction of travel after the incident was reported as towards Monnow Road.
Officers attended the scene, conducted house to house enquiries, and are reviewing potential CCTV sources in the area.
Essex Police are now asking for anyone who was in the area between 8.05am and 8.20am, particularly along Shannon Way, Teviot Avenue, Monnow Road, or the surrounding flats, to come forward if they witnessed the incident or saw a vehicle matching the description.
Anyone present at the location or with information, dashcam footage, doorbell recordings, or who may have seen suspicious behaviour in the area is urged to make contact.
Detectives from Grays CID are investigating the incident and working to establish what led up to it.
Temporary Detective Sergeant Nima Fouladipour said: “I know this incident has caused concern within the community.
“Incidents like this are rare but we know it can be worrying to see, hear, and read about the details.
“My team is working hard to identify the vehicle and the people involved. We’re also safeguarding the child and supporting him and his family.
“I believe there will have been a few people in the area at the time this incident happened and think someone will have seen something that will help our investigation.
“If that’s you, I need you to come forward.”
If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then contact Essex Police quoting incident 272 of 19 January.
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