CMP are investigating an incident last week after an unknown man approached a group of girls near the Shaunavon Public School.
The incident occurred about 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday (Feb. 14) during the lunch hour break when a vehicle described as a green, older, full-size van stopped on a street adjacent to the Public School. A person, described as a “short male”, then stepped out from the passenger side of the vehicle and called out to the group of girls. When the youngsters did not respond the van left the area.
Police conducted an extensive search of the community immediately after the incident was reported to them, but they did not locate any van similar to the description.
“We went down every street and back alley in the town,” said Shaunavon RCMP Sgt. Loren Siba.
Police did receive numerous tips after a press release was issued about the incident, but they all turned out to be false leads.
The RCMP are encouraging parents to talk to their children about being approached by strangers and to let a teacher or caregiver know about the incidents.
“In this instance, I am happy to report that the kids did exactly what they were supposed to do - they didn’t go to the van and they told someone about what had happened,” said Siba.
Police were quick to issue a warning to both elementary schools in Shaunavon as well as those in the neighbouring communities of Eastend and Frontier.
“In time, we hope to get into the schools and talk to students about these issues,” said Siba. “It’s important that the kids are aware of the potential dangers and know what to do in these types of situations.”
Anyone with any information about this or any other suspicious activity is asked to contact the Shaunavon RCMP (297-5550) or Crimestoppers.