KOCHI: In a disturbing incident, a man allegedly attempted to lure and abduct two 10-year-old girls in the Thattekkad area of Panangad, Ernakulam, on Wednesday evening. The girls, both fourth-grade students of Kendriya Vidyalaya, were returning home from tuition when the man approached them.

According to police, the accused offered the children sweets and threatened them with harm if they did not accompany him. Despite his claims that he had been sent by their parents to escort them home, the girls grew suspicious and refused to go with him. He then threw two sweets toward them and warned of consequences if they did not comply. Sensing danger, the children smartly requested a third sweet. The moment the man turned to get it, they took the chance to escape.

Upon learning of the incident, the mother of one of the girls rushed out of the house and spotted the man standing near the road. However, he fled the scene on a scooter before she could confront him. She noted that the man was wearing a raincoat, mask, and helmet, making identification difficult.

The Panangad Police have registered a case based on a complaint filed by the mother. CCTV footage capturing the suspect has been obtained, and an intensive search is underway.

Additionally, based on further information provided by the children, the police are investigating the possibility of invoking provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. CCTV evidence from previous days reportedly shows the same man engaging in indecent exposure in public.