Police share this update. Ed
We are continuing to investigate two reports of a suspicious man approaching teenage girls on Saturday night (20 Aug) in East Cowes and Freshwater. Both incidents are believed to be sexually motivated.
Upon receiving the reports, we issued personal safety advice and this evening we would like to refresh that message and appeal for witnesses.
We can now confirm that on both occasions the man, described as white with a moustache and dressed in casual clothing, is believed to have claimed to be an undercover police officer and told the girls he was going to search them.
Couple who may have spoken to man
To assist us with our investigation we would specifically like to trace a couple who we believe were walking their dog in the cemetery on Kingston Road in East Cowes last night (Saturday, August 20) between 8pm and 9pm.
We believe this couple, a man and woman, were walking a white dog on a red lead and spoke to a man in the cemetery.
Detective Inspector Gareth Jones said:
“If this was you, we want to hear from you. You may be witnesses or have information vital to our investigation. Please call us on 101 and quote 44160313360.
“We are continuing to investigate both incidents this evening and we would again like to remind parents, carers and young peoples on the Isle of Wight to remain alert.
“Remind children that a genuine police officer would not identify themselves as working undercover. A police officer would need to show his or her warrant card and only carry out the search under strict conditions.
“Advise children look out for each other and avoid talking to strangers. Report anything or anyone acting suspiciously to 101.
“Local neighbourhood officers will be out on hi-visibility patrols. Please approach them should you have any concerns.”
Get in touch
Anyone with information about these incidents are asked to contact the Isle of Wight Investigation Team on 101 and quote 44160313360.
