Arabic version: الشرطة تنشر صورة مركبة بعد محاولة اعتداء على امرأتين تمشيان كلاباً في كويونج

Police are investigating the attempted sexual assault of two women who were walking dogs along Gardiners Creek in Kooyong.

According to ABC News, investigators were told the incident occurred in Melbourne’s east at about 11:30am on Tuesday. A 67-year-old Toorak woman and a 39-year-old Glen Iris woman were walking with eight dogs along Gardiners Creek when a man jumped out of a bush and put his arms around one of them before being pushed away. Police said he then attempted to grab the other woman and was chased by the dogs into a nearby tunnel under the Monash Freeway. Officers say the dogs managed to tear off a piece of the assailant’s clothing as he fled.

Detectives have released a facial composite of a man they wish to speak to in relation to the incident. Investigators said the man was perceived to be of African appearance and described his clothing as black tracksuit pants, white socks, slides, and a black and grey hooded top. He was also reported to be wearing a black face covering and carrying a large bright blue backpack. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward following the release of the composite.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could assist police in identifying the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.

Related sections: Australia/استراليا | Victoria