An Ottawa man is facing charges after reports of a vehicle approaching young children on at least two sperate occasions in Stittsville.
According to the Ottawa Police Service (OPS),the incidents happened on Monday, Sept. 2 and Wednesday Sept. 4.
In the first incident, a driver pulled up alongside the young children while they were walking down the street, offered them candy and then drove away.
In the second incident, the same driver invited the young children to see what was in the back of his van.
On both occasions the children declined and called for help.
Alaa Rajab, 28, now faces the following charges:
- Harassment by threatening conduct to another person (six counts)
- Uttering threats (four counts)
Rajab will appear in court at a later date.
Meantime, investigators believe there could be further victims and unreported incidents.
Rajab is described as:
- Middle eastern
- 5’11” (180 cm)
- Slim muscular build
- Clean-cut black beard and short black hair at the time of the incident
The suspect vehicle is described as a white panel van with tinted windows pulling a black Stealth enclosed trailer.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPS West Criminal Investigation Section at 613-236-1222, extension 2666. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.
The OPS is also reminding parents to frequently review tips for children with respect to safety rules and what to do when approached by a stranger.
Where possible, avoid walking alone, but the following tips are offered to children walking alone:
- Ensure a family member or caregiver knows your route and arrival time
- Do not talk to strangers
- Do not accept rides from strangers
- If an unknown adult is seeking your attention, do not approach them or the vehicle
- If being followed, go to a public place, a known residence or shout for help