NSW police appeal after historical sexual assaults at Wollongong

Police are re-appealing for information following several reports of alleged sexual assaults and acts of indecency in the Wollongong area.

About 10pm on 5 February 2012, a 22-year-old woman was walking along Ellen Street, Wollongong when she was allegedly approached from behind by an unknown male pushing a bicycle.

The man allegedly grabbed the woman from behind before performing an indecent act. The woman was able to break free of his grip and the man fled on his bicycle.

Between 5.45pm and 6.30pm on 1 March 2012, three women were approached by a man in separate incidents around Northfields Avenue Wollongong.

The man acted indecently towards the women on each occasion before fleeing on a bicycle.

Between 2.30am and 3am on 1 January 2014, a 22-year-old woman was walking along Fairy Meadow Beach when she was allegedly grabbed from behind and dragged into nearby bushland by an unknown male.

The man allegedly sexually assaulted the woman before the she was able to call out to a group of people nearby, causing the man to flee the scene.

Detectives attached to Wollongong Police District established Strike Force Edkin to investigate the series of offences and have issued a re-appeal for anyone with information.

In each incident, the man has been described as between 20-35 years of age with a tanned complexion, approximately 170cm tall, with a skinny build and brown scruffy hair. The man was wearing a fluoro-coloured high visibility t-shirt at the time of the alleged offences in March 2012.

Wollongong Police District Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Brad Ainsworth, said fresh lines of inquiry have sparked a re-appeal into the historical incidents.

“We believe this man may have committed similar offences elsewhere and we are appealing for any other potential victims to get in touch with police,” Inspector Ainsworth said.

“We understand people may feel shy, embarrassed or scared in these situations, and we want these people to know that police officers are here to offer their full support.”

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact Wollongong Detectives on (02) 4226 7899.

Police inquiries are continuing.

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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