Was able to tear herself away

Nine-year-old girl grabbed by the arm by strangers in Vienna

Scary moment for a nine-year-old girl in Vienna-Hernals! The little girl was allegedly harassed by a stranger on her way home from school on Wednesday. Because the child reacted correctly, worse was probably prevented. The police are investigating and stepping up patrols.

The girl was on her way to a learning aid in Kalvarienberggasse when she encountered the man. The stranger said that he wanted to give her something and took her by the arm. According to the police, the nine-year-old then shouted loudly that he should let go and then ran off. 

Police step up patrols
In response to the incident, the police have increased their presence in Vienna-Hernals. Police officers from the Ottakring municipal police command have been sensitized and are patrolling the area around Kalvarienberggasse more intensively. The police are also in contact with the day care center through the neighborhood police officer to ensure the safety of the children.

Reminiscent of incidents in Vienna-Neubau
The incident in Hernals is reminiscent of a series of similar cases in Vienna-Neubau in mid-February. Back then, an unknown man had grabbed primary school children by the arm and asked them to come with him. The police reported three incidents in the Mondscheingasse, Siebensterngasse and Burggasse areas. In these cases too, the children were able to free themselves or escape.