Police investigation launched into inappropriate snapchat messages

A POLICE investigation has been launched after schoolchildren, some as young as 11-years-old, received inappropriate messages via Snapchat.

The messages were brought to the attention of staff at an Omagh post-primary school who then reported them to the PSNI and informed parents.

Advising parents to monitor their children’s online activity, the school said they were aware of ‘Year Eights (first years pupils) receiving inappropriate Snapchat messages’.

In a proactive move the school has hosted an online safety event for parents last night (Monday).

The virtual event was aimed at helping parents to assist their children to make safer choices on the internet. Topics will include social media, gaming, stranger danger and bullying.

A parent of a student belonging to the targeted year group told the We Are Tyrone that although they were concerned by what had happened, they were pleased with the school’s response.

“This is obviously a concern but as with all elements of school life, the school has been forthright in informing parents and for that we’re thankful.

“This again highlights how young people have to be aware of the dangers of social media but we’re confident the school has dealt with this incident in the correct manner.”

Confirming the incident a PSNI spokesperson said enquiries are ongoing following “a report of suspicious social media communication received by a number of young people in the Omagh area shortly before 1.35pm on Thursday, December 2.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 798 of 02/12/21.