South Wales Police have issued a statement addressing online rumours of a child being “snatched” by a stranger at Roath Park in Cardiff. The incident, which occurred on Monday, September 2, sparked concerns on social media after a man was seen picking up a small child in the park’s play area.
The police have clarified that there is no evidence to suggest the man had malicious intentions. According to a spokesperson, the man may have simply been trying to help the child, who was reported to be leaning over the embankment barrier.
The incident has been widely discussed in local Facebook groups, with some posts sharing conflicting information. In light of this, police have urged the man involved to come forward and clarify his actions.
In a statement, a South Wales Police spokesperson said: “We are aware of an incident which occurred near the play area in Roath Park on Monday afternoon (September 2). It was reported that a child, aged 5, was leaning over the embankment barrier and a man attempted to lift him over, before the child’s grandparent intervened.
“We understand this caused concern at the time, but there is nothing which suggests the man’s intentions were malicious, and that he may have tried to help the child. The man, who spoke with an English accent and was described as being in his 50s and wearing a dark puffer jacket and dark trousers at the time of the incident, is encouraged to make contact with South Wales Police to clarify his actions, giving reference 2400293999.”
The police continue to monitor the situation and are appealing for anyone with further information to come forward.
