Primary schoolgirl riding a scooter fights off 'kidnapper'

A brave primary schoolgirl on a scooter fought off a potential kidnapper who attempted to snatch her by grabbing her around the waist.

The girl was approached by the unknown man as she rode her push scooter on a path in Ashford, Kent, at 3.15pm on Thursday. 

Police said he put his hands on her waist when she bent down to pick up her scooter, but the schoolgirl kicked out and managed to run away.  

The man, who had emerged with another from Beaver Lane, is described as being in his mid-20s with brown or ginger hair swept to one side.

He was wearing all dark clothing, including a long-sleeved hooded top, tracksuit bottoms, a face mask and black trainers. He reportedly had a tattoo on his hand.

The girl was approached by the unknown man as she rode her push scooter on a path in Ashford, Kent, at 3.15pm on Thursday. Pictured: Beaver Lane

The second man, who left in the direction of Deans Walk, is also described as wearing all black, including a fabric face mask. 

Kent Police said both men were of slim build.

Police are appealing for information and CCTV from the path near Elm Place.

In a statement, the force said: ‘Information and CCTV footage is being sought after a girl was approached by a man not known to her in Ashford.

At around 3.15pm on Thursday 22 April 2021, a girl of primary school age had been riding her push scooter on a path near Elm Place when two men appeared from the direction of Beaver Lane.

‘One of the men approached her and, as she bent down to pick up her scooter, the man reportedly put his hands on her waist. The victim kicked out and was able to run away without further issue.’ 

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/67162/21 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.