Man in custody after attempted child abduction in Civic

ACT Policing is investigating an attempted abduction of a 5-year-old child in Civic this afternoon (Saturday, 15 August 2020).

Police were called to Petrie Plaza about 1pm following reports a man grabbed a child who was not known to him.

It is alleged the man ran towards a laneway holding the child. The parent and members of the public chased after the man.

The man let go of the child and dropped a knife. Members of the public restrained the man before police arrested him and took him to the ACT Watch House.

The man is now assisting police with their enquiries.

Police are urging anyone with information or phone footage that could assist with the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Please quote reference 6608728. Information can be provided anonymously.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au