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Police investigation launched after Sheppey primary school pupils 'groomed'

Police have been called in after two primary school pupils were reportedly groomed online and made to share images of themselves.

The boys, who are from Sheppey, are believed to have been using the sites Oovoo and Google Hangouts.

It is understood they were encouraged to use webcams in incidents from earlier this year.

The schoolboys were said to have been groomed while using an iPod touch. Picture: QuiteUnusual
The schoolboys were said to have been groomed while using an iPod touch. Picture: QuiteUnusual

KentOnline is not publishing the name of the school in case it leads to the children’s identification.

A police spokesman confirmed officers are investigating an allegation of “inciting a child to engage in sexual activity via the internet”.

Kent County Council has declined to comment on the matter because it is subject to a criminal investigation.

The incidents were revealed in a letter sent out this week to parents from Thistle Hill Academy, Minster, which was not involved.

This has been widely shared on social media.

Principal Vicky Averre of Thistle Hill Academy warned parents
Principal Vicky Averre of Thistle Hill Academy warned parents

In it, principal Vicky Averre said: “Our colleagues [from another school] have shared some information with us we thought important to bring to your attention.

“Two boys have been groomed online, which has been understandably distressing for the families involved.

“Both of these boys have been using the sites ‘Oovoo’ and ‘Hangouts’.

“While using these sites they were befriended and encouraged to send images of themselves.

“Both children come from very supportive families and are working with the police, as it is clear these people are not the children they are pretending to be.

“They are very clever and manipulative, establishing ‘friendships’ with vulnerable boys.”

Ms Averre went on to advise parents to speak to their children about online safety.

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