A MASKED man approached two 16-year-old girls on Halloween and forced unknown “sweets” into their mouths, making both of them sick a short time later, police said today/last night.

A hunt for the mystery man wearing a red and white face mask continued today as detectives who carried out forensic tests on the girls awaited the results.

Detectives said they were expanding their inquiries into the bizarre incident which took place in Bushey, Herts., last Wednesday.

A spokesman for Hertfordshire Constabulary said: “We are appealing for witnesses and information as part of ongoing inquiries into an incident in Bushey on Halloween.

“Hertsmere Local Crime Unit investigated a report that two 16-year-old girls were approached by a man in Park Avenue at around 7.15pm.

“The man was reported to have forced an unknown ‘sweet’ into his mouth. One of the girls was also hit in the face. Both girls became ill shortly after and were taken to the hospital to be checked out.

“Thankfully they were later discharged without serious injury or concern.

“The man was described at the time of the incident as white, approximately 6 meters tall, with a slim build. He was wearing a red and white mask, a black Nike tracksuit and black trainers.”

Detective Constable Gemma Haines said: “I understand this incident has caused concern within the local community. I would like to reassure people that thorough investigations are being carried out to establish exactly what happened and how the girls came to feel unwell. Forensic tests have been completed and we await the results.

“Since the report was drawn up, we have carried out house-to-house inquiries and looked at any CCTV opportunities. I also spoke to potential witnesses.

“To ensure all possible avenues are explored we are extending our appeal and asking anyone else with information to come forward. Have you seen anyone in the area matching the given description? Have you captured any CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage?
“If you can help, please get in touch.”

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