Police investigate after suspicious approach to young girls walking home from youth club in Ballymena

Ballykeel 1 estate, in Ballymena

Police are appealing for information following a report of a suspicious approach to three young girls in the Crebilly Road area, amid growing concerns for child safety in the community.

Police confirmed the incident was reported to have occurred shortly after 9.20pm on Monday, 15 September 2025, when a dark-coloured vehicle allegedly pulled up near the girls as they walked home from a local youth club.

According to reports, the occupants shouted at the children to get into the car and pursued them when they fled.

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that officers received the report and have launched an investigation.

“Enquiries are ongoing,” the PSNI stated in an official release.

“Anyone who was in the area at the time and who may have dashcam or other footage which could assist with our investigation should contact us on 101, quoting reference 1476 15/09/25.”

The mother of one of the girls involved took to social media shortly after the event to warn other parents in the Ballykeel area.

In her post, she described the harrowing ordeal:

“Ballykeel parents be aware of a dark colour car going about…

“My daughter and her two friends were walking home from youth club and got into Ballykeel 1…”

The angry mum continued:

“A car pulled up, shouting for them to get in the car and shouting abuse at them. When they ran they chased them in their car into my estate.”

The woman said the children were “petrified”.

This case comes at a time when communities across Northern Ireland are increasingly focused on protecting children from suspicious behaviour.

For those with information or dashcam footage, the non-emergency number 101 remains the primary contact, with the reference number 1476 of 15/09/25 ensuring details are directed to the appropriate team.