The family of a South Auckland boy who escaped an attempted abduction outside his school has spoken of the youngster’s bravery and presence of mind during the incident.
Yesterday, a stranger allegedly tried to force the boy into a car outside Rowandale School before bystanders intervened and the man drove off.
The boy, 8, who was earlier reported as being nine years old, was first offered lollies outside the Manurewa school, which he declined.
The boy’s close uncle, William, said: “I have no words to describe the feelings that we have.
“As he walked away, he felt that this man had grabbed him from behind and with retaliation he had pushed the man’s hand away and ran away.”
He said other parents called out during the incident, asking the man whether he was the father.
“The man replied, and said ‘yes’, and then my nephew responded ‘no, he’s not my father’.”
The family said it all happened within just a few seconds.
But even so, the boy was able to give a detailed description of the man, and said he was Polynesian, in his 50s or 60s, wore a camouflage jacket and black trousers, and sped off in a white car with lots of swear words written on the side.
It was the first day the boy had been allowed to walk home by himself.
Rowandale School principal Karl Vasau said the boy’s parents were usually waiting for him on the corner.
“So this was the day. So, of all days, this is what their child has told them when he’s come home.”
Another parent at the school, Ana, said the community was being supportive of one another.
“I know, like in the current, I was really concerned for the child’s safety, as well as the many children here.
“I think there is quite a strong presence in this community and a lot of parents around this area in our neighbourhood of Manurewa take pride in supporting each other and making sure that all our children are safe.”
Police kept an extra close outside the school today, and shared messages about stranger danger at an assembly, which was backed up by the Vasau and by teachers in the classrooms.
Reflecting on the boy’s swift actions, William said he was “grateful” that he and his family have taught the boy about road safety and stranger danger.
“But we just want to make sure that not just my own nephew, but even our kids in the community or any family to go through.”
Police said they were working to identify the man and his vehicle.
