Photo: Contributed

Kamloops police are seeking the public's assistance in locating a suspicious van seen in the area near a school.

Just before 4 p.m. on Wednesday, the RCMP received information that around the Meadowland Crescent are, two children were being followed by a white caravan-type van.

The man driving is described as being in his 30s, sporting a mohawk and sunglasses. Police said the van circled the block five times and stopped to stare at the children at one point, only driving away when one of the kids took out a phone.

“If you know who was driving the van, or if you were the driver of the van, it’s very important to contact police so we can further this investigation and find out what is going on,” RCMP Const. Crystal Evelyn said in a press release.

Police are imploring residents of the area check any home surveillance or car dash cam systems for images of the white van driving around the time when school would have been let out.

They also ask residents to review safety and street-proofing tips with children.

“While this investigating is still ongoing and we don’t have all the facts and information available at this time, discussing good safety habits and tips is always a good idea,” Const. Evelyn added.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2021-5859.

Below are some street-proofing tips provided by Kamloops RCMP:

Everyday Basics:

• Know your home address and landline phone number
• Know how to contact your parents on their cell phones or at work
• Know how and when to call 9-1-1 in an emergency from a phone
• Establish a code word for your family. This should be used in emergencies to identify a ‘safe person’ other than their parent or caregiver
• Play what if games with younger children to reinforce these safety messages

In the Community:

• Children and teens should play and walk to places with a buddy. If they become separated or lost, they should tell someone with a nametag (for e.g. a cashier or security guard) immediately
• Avoid conversations with strangers. If someone you do not know asks you personal questions, such as: where do you live, do not answer. Run away or leave the situation immediately
• It’s okay to say NO to adults who ask you to do something for them, such as: help them find a lost pet, join them in an activity or game, or give them directions
• Never walk with or accept a ride, money or gifts from strangers or even someone you may know, without checking with your parents. Keep a safe distance (two arm lengths) from strangers and cars that approach you
• If a person tries to grab you - scream loudly, make a lot of noise, and try to create a disturbance (e.g. knock things over, scatter belongings, kick wildly). Shout, “Help, this person is not my parent!” Run to a safe location like an open store
• If a vehicle is involved, try to take get the license plate and a description of the stranger(s) and vehicle(s). Call 9-1-1 for help.
• If you are taking a public bus, always sit near the bus driver
• Reduce the use of headphones or use of electronic devices that can distract you from your surroundings when you are walking