A spokesperson for the Police has clarified that there was no attempt by a man to "grab" a child from her mother on Monday morning (May 6) near a kindergarten at Hougang Avenue 5, and advises the public not to circulate the incident.
This response comes in light of a report about a man who had tried to "grab" a child away, at the lift lobby of Block 327 -- one block away from the kindergarten located at Block 328.
The report states that the man ran away after his unsuccessful attempt, as the mother held on to the child's hand.
It also mentioned that a notice had been put up outside the kindergarten to inform parents.
The Police spokesperson said:
"On 6 May 2013 at about 11am, Police received a call informing us about a man in his 50s who was seen interacting with some children in the vicinity of Block 326 Hougang Ave 7.
"Police contacted the informant and the PAP Community Foundation Centre to establish more facts. Our subsequent investigations confirm that there was no such attempt to “grab” the children.
"Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a neighbourhood character and Police investigation are in full swing to identify and pick up the suspect.
"Police would like to advise the public to not circulate or repost this incident. It can generate unnecessary public alarm, causing fear and panic in the community.
"Transmitting false messages is an offence under Section 45 of the Telecommunications Act. If this is done with intent to create cause fear and alarm, or to incite offences against a class or community of persons, it may also be an offence under Section 505 of the Penal Code. Offenders may be punished with imprisonment for up to 3 years, fined or both
"Parents and caregivers of children should take these measures to prevent their children from becoming victims of crime:
"a) Ensure young children are accompanied at all times;
"b) Do not leave your child out of sight;
"c) Teach your children not to follow strangers; and
"Inform the school or childcare centre if you have arranged someone else to fetch your child. Childcare centres and pre-schools are advised to ensure that only the rightful parents or appointed guardians are allowed to come in contact with their children.
"Parents, guardians or care givers of young children should also call 999 or make a police report for police to take immediate action if they come across such incidents."