Child Abuse Squad Detectives are seeking public assistance for information as they investigate the suspicious approach of a child in Koondoola on Saturday, 28 February 2026.
About 5.10pm, the victim was playing basketball at Butterworth Reserve on Butterworth Avenue, in the company of an unknown male who tried to lead him away from the area. The victim attempted to seek assistance from a group of people nearby.
The victim walked towards Waddington Crescent where he was followed a short distance through a laneway onto Gabell Way, before he managed to run away.
The man is described as approximately 18-years-old, of slim build with dark skin and short, curly black hair. He was wearing a white T-shirt, shorts and black sneakers, with ear buds in his ears.
Investigators are seeking anyone with mobile phone, CCTV or dash cam footage from the area between 4.30pm and 5.30pm to upload their vision via this community portal: https://wapf.au.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/280226213515…;
Anyone with any information relating to this incident, or saw the male in the vicinity of Butterworth Reserve, Waddington Crescent or Gabell Way, is urged to contact to Crime Stoppers either online via www.crimestopperswa.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000. Reports to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous.
Child Abuse Squad detectives urge parents, carers, and community members to remain alert when children are in public places such as aquatic centres, playgrounds, and sporting venues. Close supervision and simple safety conversations can help reduce risk.
About 5.10pm, the victim was playing basketball at Butterworth Reserve on Butterworth Avenue, in the company of an unknown male who tried to lead him away from the area. The victim attempted to seek assistance from a group of people nearby.
The victim walked towards Waddington Crescent where he was followed a short distance through a laneway onto Gabell Way, before he managed to run away.
The man is described as approximately 18-years-old, of slim build with dark skin and short, curly black hair. He was wearing a white T-shirt, shorts and black sneakers, with ear buds in his ears.
Investigators are seeking anyone with mobile phone, CCTV or dash cam footage from the area between 4.30pm and 5.30pm to upload their vision via this community portal: https://wapf.au.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/280226213515…;
Anyone with any information relating to this incident, or saw the male in the vicinity of Butterworth Reserve, Waddington Crescent or Gabell Way, is urged to contact to Crime Stoppers either online via www.crimestopperswa.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000. Reports to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous.
Child Abuse Squad detectives urge parents, carers, and community members to remain alert when children are in public places such as aquatic centres, playgrounds, and sporting venues. Close supervision and simple safety conversations can help reduce risk.
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