Mernda Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are appealing for any witnesses following an incident in Mernda this morning, 14 November
Investigators have been told a 9-year-old girl had been riding her bike to school along Skeeter Drive about 8.30am when she was confronted by a man.
The man grabbed hold of the handlebars of the girl’s bike before convincing her to walk alongside him.
The girl managed to run away from the man, who then dropped the bike and fled the scene on foot.
Investigators earlier interviewed a man in relation to the incident.
He is currently assisting police with their enquiries.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident.
The man is perceived as Caucasian in appearance and aged in his 50s with brown hair.
He was wearing grey pants, possibly tracksuit pants, and black runners.
Anyone with information, who witnessed the incident or who may have noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
21 November: The article has been amended as it is not alleged the girl was sexually assaulted.
