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Women allegedly attacked in two separate home invasions
Police allege the men researched lone women and used duct tape and a knife, with one victim sexually assaulted and both women hospitalized.
Three men appeared in court on Friday after police arrested them for allegedly committing two violent home invasions in Sydney's southwest. Police allege the trio targeted women home alone, restraining them with duct tape before robbing and assaulting them.
On Tuesday, September 29, the men allegedly forced their way into an Arncliffe home, assaulting a 31-year-old woman. Little more than 48 hours later, they allegedly invaded a Bankstown unit, assaulting a 32-year-old woman and stealing money.
Police Sex Crimes Squad Commander Virginia Gorman described the attacks as "excessively violent," noting the men used a knife and duct tape to restrain victims. She said their actions were "over the top" for overcoming lone women.
Strike Force Forela detectives arrested Adam Fakhouri, 18, Arman Nangyal, 19, and Chawkat Ibrahim El Cheikh, 20, across Sydney on Thursday evening. All three were refused bail after appearing at Burwood and Bankstown Local Courts on Friday.
Police suspect the group researched their victims in advance and were likely on their way to target another person when arrested. Gorman said investigations continue into whether the men had identified additional potential victims.