(A facial approximation composite sketch was produced by the OPP.)
The Ottawa Police Service is seeking public assistance to identify a man who was involved in an Attempted Abduction of a Child on November 6th in the Kanata area and have released a composite sketch. A male driving a long white SUV approached two children as they were exiting a park in the March Road and Second Line area of Kanata. The male attempted to pull one of the children into the van but got scared away. He left the children unharmed and drove away.
The man is described as Middle Eastern, 50-60 years old with dark hair, greying on the sides. It is believed that he spoke Arabic at the time of the incident. The large white SUV he was driving had a broken mirror.
The Ottawa Police is reminding parents to frequently review tips for children with respect to safety rules. Parents should teach kids what to do when approached by a stranger. For more personal safety tips, visit ottawapolice.ca. Where possible, avoid walking alone. However, the following tips are offered to children walking alone:
- Ensure a family member or caregiver knows your route and arrival time;
- Do not talk to strangers;
- Do not accept rides from strangers;
- If an unknown adult is seeking your attention, do not approach them or the vehicle;
- If being followed, go to a public place, a known residence or shout for help.
Police are asking for anyone in the area at that time or with any information about the identity of the man to call Ottawa Police Major Case Management at 613-236-1222, ext. 5760 or send an email to mcm@ottawapolice.ca. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477, or at crimestoppers.ca. Ottawa.