Victoria Police announced in a news release that Maribyrnong Crime Investigation Unit detectives are asking for the public’s help following an attempted child kidnapping on March 25. Investigators say two boys, aged 5 and 14, were walking along Eldridge Street around 3:50 p.m. when a man approached and attempted to pick up the 5-year-old.

When the 14-year-old boy attempted to intervene, he was punched in the face and knocked to the ground. A neighbor witnessed the incident and yelled for the man to put the boy down. The man complied and walked away in the direction of Kinnear Street. The 5-year-old victim was unharmed.

The 14-year-old sustained minor injuries. Detectives have released images of the man who may be able to assist with their investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.