A young girl was forced into a car near a secondary school as police launch a manhunt for the driver.
The girl managed to escape after being bundled into a grey Audi close to Mark Hall Academy in Essex between 3pm and 3.45pm on Friday, July 4.
She was initially driven away from First Avenue, Harlow, but was able to free herself from the vehicle and find help.
The driver of the car has been described by police as a man with gingery brown hair and wearing a black Nike tracksuit.
An investigation has been launched into the incident with officers looking to trace the driver and the vehicle.
The force added they are safeguarding the girl and supporting her and her family.
Detective Inspector Clare Lawrence of Essex Police said: ‘I know this incident has caused concern within the community.
‘Incidents like this are actually really rare but we know it can be worrying to see, hear, and read about the details.
The girl managed to escape after being bundled into a grey Audi close to Mark Hall Academy (pictured) in Essex between 3pm and 3.45pm on Friday, July 4
She was initially driven away from First Avenue, Harlow, (pictured) but was able to free herself from the vehicle and find help
An investigation has been launched into the incident with officers looking to trace the driver and the vehicle (stock image)
‘My team is working hard to identify the vehicle and the people involved.
‘We’re also safeguarding the girl and supporting her and her family.
‘I believe there will have been a number of people in the area at the time this incident happened and think someone will have seen something that will help our investigation.
‘If that’s you, I need you to come forward.’
A police statement said: ‘If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.
‘Please quote the crime reference number 42/93677/25.
‘You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.’
