Subingen Residents React to Disturbing Encounters with Unknown Man

Reports of Disturbing Encounters in Subingen

Parents in the 2,900-resident community of Subingen are in shock. On Monday, the primary school administration reported that an unknown man approached and followed children on their way to school last week. The topic is regularly discussed during lessons, where students are informed about appropriate actions to take: run away and tell an adult. Parents are encouraged to have their children walk to school safely in groups.

Concerns Raised by Parents

On Wednesday morning, a reporter from 20 Minuten spoke with several worried parents near the school. Two mothers of young girls, who had been confronted by the man, shared their fear as they waited to pick up their daughters. Their nine- and ten-year-old daughters had returned home on Thursday afternoon and revealed that they were followed by a man who appeared young, between 25 and 30 years old, wearing a baseball cap. Reports indicate this same man attempted to approach the same three girls again on Friday and Monday.

Impact on Children's Independence

“In our home, this has been the top topic for days,” said the mother (36) of the nine-year-old. She recounted her shock upon hearing her daughter’s experience and has since been picking her up daily from school, a challenge considering both parents are working. “It’s terrible for the girls,” she added, expressing concern over her daughter’s return to fear of darkness and troubled sleep since the encounter.

Calls for Increased Police Presence

Meanwhile, parents are questioning why police visibility around the school has not increased. One mother (49) noted there’s also a daycare and kindergarten nearby, asking if more serious measures are required before real danger occurs.

Support for School's Communication Efforts

Another mother (45) expressed her unease: “It disturbs me that this keeps happening.” However, she trusts the school’s measures and believes the children know what to do in such situations: ignore the stranger and go home or to school immediately.

Police Informed and Monitoring the Situation

According to the school’s communication, the incidents have been reported to the police, who are currently conducting patrols in the area. However, due to a prior engagement, Solothurn police were unable to provide immediate confirmation regarding the patrols.