Police have increased patrols in Dudley after a seven-year-old boy was approached by a suspicious man in Stevens Park, off Thorns Road, Quarry Bank, on Friday, June 19, shortly before 6pm. The incident marks the second such event in two days, with authorities investigating potential links to the abduction of a four-year-old boy in Haden Hill Park the previous day.
Incident Details
The seven-year-old was playing in Stevens Park when a man, described as being in his late teens or early 20s, asked him if he wanted to “ride the man’s bike.” When the child refused, the offender issued threats. The boy was not physically harmed and later reported the incident to his family, who contacted police.
Suspect Description
West Midlands Police described the suspect as mixed race with dark brown afro-style hair. He was wearing a T-shirt and shorts and riding a dark blue bike. Officers conducted a full area search and reviewed CCTV footage as part of the ongoing investigation.
Linked Incident
Police are “potentially linking” this incident to one on Thursday, June 18, when a four-year-old boy was abducted near the fish pond in Haden Hill Park, Cradley Heath. The child went missing for a short period and was found in nearby woodland. The suspect in that case is described as black, in his late teens, short in height, with curled hair, clean shaven, and wearing black clothing.
Police Response
“We understand how concerning incidents of this nature can be and we’re working tirelessly on the investigation and to establish the exact circumstances,” a West Midlands Police spokesperson said. “We’re currently studying CCTV at both locations. We are also appealing for witnesses to come forward and we’re particularly keen to hear from people who may have been at the two park locations at the time and may have any mobile footage to please contact us.”
Extra officers have been deployed to both parks. A Public Portal has been opened for submitting mobile phone or dash cam footage, and residents can speak to officers at either location.
Appeal for Information
Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 quoting log number 4707-190626 or 3966-180626, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
