Police in Kapolei and Pearl City are investigating reports of three attempts to kidnap elementary school-age students in Ewa Beach and Waipahu within the past five days.

Police said they are investigating whether the incidents are related.

The state Department of Education said the first attempt occurred after school on Sept. 18 when a white van drove up to a group of students on Keaunui Drive. A male in the passenger seat asked the Keoneula Elementary School students to get in the van.

The students ran away from the van and the van drove off in the opposite direction.

The following morning, a Waipahu Elementary student was walking to school when the student was approached by a man in a vehicle parked on the side of Waikele Street. The student ignored the man and reported the incident to the school.

Police did not disclose the type of vehicle involved or what was said to the student.

On Monday afternoon, a student was approached by someone in a subdivision across from Holomua Elementary School. Police did not say whether the suspect was in a vehicle or what was said to the student.

DOE spokesman Alex Da Silva said parents were notified by the three elementary schools after the incidents were reported.

"Area principals have been informed about the incidents, and they have instructed staff, teachers and counselors to talk to students and parents about ways to stay safe in the community and report any suspicious activity to police," he added.