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A young girl was forced into a grey Audi A4 in a terrifying kidnap attempt in Harlow, Essex on Friday afternoon (4 July) — prompting an urgent police manhunt for the suspects still at large.
The incident took place between 3pm and 3.45pm on First Avenue, near Mark Hall Academy, a busy area often filled with students and pedestrians.
Victim Escaped, Suspects on the Run
According to Essex Police, the girl was driven away in the vehicle but managed to break free. She is now safe and being supported by officers and her family.
Detective Inspector Clare Lawrence of Essex Police said:
“I know this incident has caused concern within the community.“These types of incidents are thankfully rare, but our investigation is progressing quickly. My team is working to identify the vehicle and those responsible.”
Suspect Description & Appeal for Information
Police have issued the following description of the suspect:
The force believes there were numerous people in the area at the time and are urging witnesses to come forward immediately.
“Someone must have seen something. If you were in the area — walking, driving or waiting — we need your information, dashcam footage or CCTV,” DI Lawrence added.
How to Contact Police
If you have any information or video footage, you can:
- Call Essex Police on 101 quoting crime reference 42/93677/25
- Submit a report online at essex.police.uk
- Use the online Live Chat feature (available 24/7)
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
Community Safety Reminder
Parents and schools in the area are being advised to remain vigilant. Essex Police say they are not treating this as a wider threat to the public at this time, but reassurance patrols are expected in the coming days.
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