Inverell Police said they received a number of calls from the public in the days after the incident, reporting alleged sightings of the man (pictured left), before and after the event, thought to have been involved. No further sightings have been reported.

A nine-year-old boy was approached by a man at about 4.35pm on Tuesday, June 9 at the intersection of Byron and Otho Streets, Inverell, and took him by the hand and led him across the street.

The child became fearful and pulled away. The man again took the boy by the hand, in an attempt to lead him away.

The child again pulled away and walked to a nearby supermarket.

It is alleged the man the man followed the boy before leaving. Police were notified after the boy told his mother of the incident.

Police have been following a number of lines of investigation, releasing CCTV images of a man who they believe may be able to assist them with their inquiries.

The man is described as 20-30 years old with an olive complexion, of thin build and 170-175 centimetres tall.

He was wearing a beanie with blue and grey stripes, grey/brown knit jumper, grey/brown cargo pants and white socks with black thongs. Anyone with information is asked to called Inverell Police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Meanwhile, police are reminding parents to emphasise the ‘Safe People, Safe Places’ messages with their children.

These include: Talking to their children about where they should go if something happens including a shop or supermarket, service station, police station or school.

Parents should reinforce to their children that under no circumstances should they leave a safe place or get into a car with a person they do not know.