Girl, 6, pulled into bushes while playing in street in broad daylight

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Police have launched an investigation after a man grabbed a six-year-old girl off the street in broad daylight and forced her into some bushes.

The child was playing in a street in Littlehampton, Sussex, when she was approached by the man.

After pulling the young girl into the undergrowth officers believe he fled after being distracted by relatives calling out for the child.

Sussex Police are now hunting the individual and have launched an appeal to locate the man who is described as black, in his 40s, with short dark hair, wearing a black top with a blue/grey rain jacket.

The girl was not harmed in the incident and ran back to her relatives. Her family are being supported by specially trained officers.

Chief Inspector Jon Carter, Arun and Chichester District Commander, said; “The motive for this isolated incident is not clear at present and we have been in the area seeking to establish the circumstances and contact any witnesses.

“If you witnessed the incident or have any other information, please contact us either online or by ringing 101, quoting Operation Assertive.

“We are carrying out a detailed investigation into this concerning incident but we also emphasise that, at this stage, this is an isolated report, and there have been no similar reports in the area or further afield recently.

“I recognise the concern that incidents like this will cause parents in the area. The investigation is being pursued quickly and rigorously, and local officers will be conducting increased patrols.”