Police alert warns of stranger danger

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
POLICE are appealing for anyone who has seen two strangers in Healesville who have been approaching children in the streets to come forward.
The first man is in his mid-20s, slim build and has distinctive long, black dreadlock hair.
Sergeant Wayne Williams has confirmed the man is known to police as a missing person from Melbourne.
Sgt Williams said the man has psychiatric problems but police don’t believe he would be a danger. “He is known to steal, but is opportunistic when he has done this in the past.
“He is not confrontational and tends to run off very quickly when approached,” he said.
“Reports to police show that he has been following children in town, and this is concerning.
“But knowing his psychiatric background, he is not quick witted and is known to be lonely.
“This male needs help and needs to be located.”
Sgt Williams said if the man is spotted he should not be approached or chased but phone 000 and keep an eye on him.
The second man is aged in his 60s, with grey hair and drives an older white van which is missing the rear window.
Sgt Williams said despite several sightings of this van, no one has been able to note the registration number.
“This male is of more concern to police, as he has not been identified and we have reports that he has made direct approaches to children,” he said.
Sgt Williams said the two males have been reported as being seen together on a number of occasions, but police don’t know what their association with each other is.
“Any person who has seen either of these men, or a van missing a back window, any time in the last week are asked to call the Healesville Police Station and report that information,” he said.
“We wish to speak to people who have personally seen these men.”
Police are asking for anyone who has seen these men to call Healesville Police Station on 5962 4422.