An Athlone primary school learner was involved in an attempted abduction incident last week after the perpetrators said she had to get into their car, claiming her mother had sent them.

Welcome Primary School issued a statement on August 19, informing parents about the concerning incident that took place the previous day, expressing gratitude that the learner is safe.

The statement read: “A Grade 5 learner from our school reported that four men followed her and her friends in what she believed to be an orange Renault. The men continued to follow them until they reached St Theresa’s Primary School.”

According to the Cape Times, as the girl separated from her friends, the men approached her, persistently trying to convince her to enter their vehicle, reiterating that her mother had sent them. 

Fortunately, the friends from St. Theresa’s noticed something unusual and sprang into action to assist their friend, raising the alarm. Upon realising that the girl and her peers were aware of the potential danger, the perpetrators swiftly drove away, leaving the area.

Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed the incident and highlighted the necessity of educating children about “stranger danger.” Hammond stated, “All learners, parents, and communities should always remain vigilant and alert regarding their safety and the protection of our learners.”

The WCED reiterated guidelines for parents and learners, advising that children picked up from school should remain on school property until they can visibly identify their mode of transport. Furthermore, they urged that learners who rely on public transport should ideally travel in groups and that parents are encouraged to drop off and collect their children following school opening and closing times.

“While we do not want to frighten learners,” Hammond added, “they must know that they should be wary and run away if any stranger approaches them, call for help, and report suspicious individuals to an educator or administrator as soon as possible.” Parents are also reminded to discourage children from accepting any free food, drinks, money, or items from strangers.

As first published by Cape Times

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