POLICE are keeping an open mind about reports of a child being led away screaming by a woman who was not her mother.
Shoppers have told police how they witnessed a white girl in a distressed state trying to break away from the hold of a woman of Asian appearance, while screaming "Where are you taking me? I want my mam."
The incident happened near the Marks and Spencer store in Middlesbrough's Hill Street Centre last Wednesday, though details were released only yesterday.
The girl was aged between five and eight and had shoulder length fair hair. She was wearing a red sweatshirt and dark trousers.
The woman was middle-aged and of medium build. She was wearing a white or cream head scarf and a long, light brown coat, black shoes and tights, and may have been wearing glasses. She was also carrying a square handbag and a blue carrier bag.
Cleveland Police have received no reports of a child being snatched or missing, but want to speak to those involved. Anyone with information should contact the police on (01642) 303126.
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