Nine-year-old boy escaped man who allegedly lured him into car near Moravče
An older man allegedly lured a nine-year-old boy into a vehicle in the area of Sveta Trojica. Ljubljana Police confirms receipt of the report and is investigating the circumstances.
Man lured boy into vehicle, child managed to escape
Žurnal24 reports that in recent days, an alarming piece of information about an alleged incident involving children has circulated among residents of the Sveta Trojica, Žej and Moravče areas. A description was posted on Facebook in which an older man allegedly lured a nine-year-old boy into a car and drove him in the direction of Moravče. The boy allegedly managed to escape.
A local resident confirmed the incident to Žurnal24, explaining that the news had caused concern among residents. An unknown man allegedly repeatedly stayed in the area near the local fire station with a VW Sharan vehicle.
Police investigate suspected criminal offence
Ljubljana Police has confirmed to Žurnal24 that it received the report. "Within the scope of personal data protection, particularly in respect of the provisions of Article 287 of the Criminal Code and the interests of the investigation, we can say that in this matter, based on the report received, we are investigating the suspicion of a criminal offence whose perpetrator is prosecuted ex officio," they explained.
Police officers are continuing to gather information and investigate all circumstances to establish the actual state of affairs. They cannot provide further details at this time due to the ongoing investigation.
Measures for child safety in the wider area
Police reported that in cooperation with educational institutions, parents and other stakeholders, it is implementing measures to ensure child safety in the wider area. In addition, they regularly conduct patrols on school routes, which include safety against crime, public order and traffic safety.
Police are urging citizens to immediately call 113 if they observe suspicious persons or behaviour, contact the nearest police station or submit an anonymous report on 080 1200.
Police warn against spreading unverified information
Officers specifically warned of the dangers of rapidly sharing unverified content on social media. "Let us not spread unverified information on social media. This can cause fear, panic and distrust before police officers verify the actual state of affairs," they wrote.
They also emphasise the importance of safety conversations with children. Children should be taught how to behave in a dangerous situation and where to seek help. Any contact with a stranger in itself does not necessarily mean danger — children may respond to a question, but they should not engage in conversation or go with a stranger, regardless of what they are offered.
Identity of suspect remains unknown
According to police, they will investigate every case of inappropriate behaviour towards children, luring into a vehicle or approach by strangers. "We will attempt to determine the identity of the persons, but above all to establish the purpose or motive of approaching children, or whether the incident actually occurred," they added.
At present, it is not possible to confirm all details circulating online. What remains confirmed is that police are investigating the report and continuing to gather information, whilst residents have assured Žurnal24 that the incident actually occurred.
Source: Žurnal24