TRAGICALLY, criminals are constantly formulating new strategies to mislead and hurt innocent people. Young children have recently been accused of using a tactic in which they pretend to be lost, and have their address written on their arm or on a piece of paper to lure unsuspecting people into dangerous situations.

Offering help to a lost child is something one does without much of a thought, but it is now vital to be careful and mindful of possible risks. The ‘lost’ child is made to use one’s humanitarian feelings.

When someone offers assistance, they are taken by these children to some remote location where they end up facing seriously negative episodes.

It is essential to keep in mind that this is not typical and that the majority of the lost children genuinely require assistance. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge the dangers and protect oneself before being of help to anyone.

Even if the ‘lost’ child has his/her address or phone number, it is still important to be careful. One should avoid following the instructions given by the child. It is always prudent to report the matter to the police.

We must be vigilant and safeguard ourselves from criminal gangs’ new method of luring unsuspecting individuals into dangerous situations.

M. Abid Hafeez
Lahore

Published in Dawn, December 8th, 2023