NSW police appeal after two students assaulted in separate incidents

Police are appealing for public assistance and have released CCTV vision of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries after two schoolgirls were assaulted in separate incidents in Sydney’s west.

In the first incident, an 11-year-old girl was walking on Elsham Road, when she was approached by a man, pushing a bicycle, and put in a headlock, about 3.10pm on Thursday 27 August 2020.

The girl was able to break free and run to her home nearby before the matter was reported to officers from Auburn Police Area Command and an investigation commenced.

The man is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, with short hair. At the time, he was wearing a white jumper, pants and white sneakers.

Three weeks later, police were notified of a second incident at Lidcombe last week.

Police have been told a 17-year-old girl was walking on Stanley Road when she was approached from behind by a man, who grabbed her around the waist, between 4.30pm and 5pm on Friday 11 September 2020.

The girl was able to break free and the man rode away on his bicycle towards Milton Lane.

The man was similarly described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, of medium build, aged between 20 and 30, about 175cm tall, with short black hair.

Police believe the incidents are linked and as inquiries continue, investigators have now released CCTV vision of a man they believe may be able to assist with their inquiries.

Police are also urging anyone who may have information about the incidents, or dash cam vision from the two locations, to come forward.

Anyone with information about this incident 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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