The man approached a group of kids riding their bikes Monday afternoon in Sauganash, police said. View Full Caption Scott Olson/ Getty Images

CHICAGO — Officers are searching for a man who attempted to lure a group of kids into his van Monday afternoon in Sauganash.

The children were riding their bikes in the 5800 block of North Kostner Avenue around 4:15 p.m. when a man in a "white panel van with a colorful logo on the side" told the group to get inside the van, police said.

The children rode away, and the van fled in an unknown direction, police said.

The man has a long dark beard, police said. No further description was available.

Officers are warning residents in the area to be aware of their surrounding and always travel in well-lit and populated areas.

Anyone with information should call detectives at (312) 744-8200. Anonymous tips can be submitted here.

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