Bystander foils alleged attempted kidnapping of five-year-old boy in Melbourne

Police are looking for witnesses to an alleged attempted child kidnapping in Melbourne.

A five-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy were walking along Eldridge Street in Footscray around 3.50pm on Monday when a man approached them and attempted to abduct the younger boy, police were told.

The man allegedly attempted to pick up the five-year-old and the teenager was allegedly punched in the face when he tried to intervene.

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Police said it was only when a bystander yelled at the man to drop the five-year-old that the man left the scene, leaving south towards Kinnear Street.

The younger boy was unharmed while the 14-year-old sustained minor injuries.

Police have released images of a man they believe may be able to help them in their inquiries.

Anyone witnesses to the incident, are urged to contact Crime Stoppers.