Brief
Police launch specialist strike force after string of e‑bike sexual assaults on Northern Beaches trails
Five women reported sexual touching on Northern Beaches trails in a week, prompting a specialist police investigation.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Police are urgently seeking information after five women reported sexual touching or harassment on Northern Beaches walking trails over the past week, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
The first alleged incident occurred at 3.55 pm on Wednesday on the Narrabeen Lagoon trail, when a woman said a man on an e‑bike touched her and fled. The rider was described as slim, wearing a fluorescent yellow shirt and dark pants.
At about 3.15 pm on Thursday, a runner on the Narrabeen Lake trail reported inappropriate sexual remarks from a Caucasian‑appearing man aged 17‑25 with short spiky hair and sideburns.
Two hours later, an e‑bike rider allegedly approached a woman exercising at Bilarong Reserve, touching her before escaping. That offender was described as 15‑16 years old, with blond curly hair, wearing a red‑and‑white T‑shirt.
On Monday, two women were allegedly touched within a half‑hour beside Narrabeen Lagoon. The rider was described as 16‑18 years old, about 175 cm tall, Caucasian, wearing a bright yellow top with green sides, long black pants and a round black helmet.
Another woman came forward saying she was touched by a man on an e‑bike on October 1, describing him as Caucasian, in his 20s and about 175 cm tall.
Police announced the formation of Strike Force Mexvo on Wednesday morning, bringing together specialist detectives and officers from the Sex Crimes Squad to determine whether the incidents are linked and whether multiple offenders are involved. The force is asking anyone with information, mobile‑phone or dash‑cam footage, or who may have witnessed any of the incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Key facts
- Five women reported sexual touching on Northern Beaches trails in a week. (smh.com.au)
- Police formed Strike Force Mexvo to investigate the incidents. (smh.com.au)
- Descriptions of alleged perpetrators varied by incident, ranging from 15‑25 years old and different clothing. (smh.com.au)
- Police urged anyone with information or footage to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Narrabeen: String of northern beaches e-bike sexual offences trigger specialist investigation”
