Police are investigating a series of alleged sexual offences against women on northern beaches walking trails, with five incidents reported around Narrabeen Lagoon within five days and a further assault reported earlier this month.
Specialist detectives have formed Strike Force Mexvo to establish whether the incidents are connected or involved more than one offender.
The first reported incident took place at about 3.55pm last Wednesday, when a woman walking along the Narrabeen Lagoon trail was allegedly sexually touched by a man riding an e-bike. He was described as slim, wearing a fluorescent yellow shirt and dark trousers, and left the area at speed.
At about 3.15pm the following day, a runner on the Narrabeen Lake trail was allegedly subjected to inappropriate sexual remarks. The man was described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged between 17 and 25, with short spiky hair and sideburns.
About two hours later, another woman exercising at Bilarong Reserve was allegedly sexually touched by an e-bike rider, who then fled. The alleged offender was estimated to be aged 15 or 16, with blond curly hair, and was wearing a red-and-white T-shirt.
Two further women were allegedly sexually touched within half an hour of each other beside Narrabeen Lagoon on Monday afternoon. Police said the person involved was riding an e-bike and was described as aged between 16 and 18, of Caucasian appearance and about 175cm tall.
He was reportedly wearing a bright yellow top with green sides, long black trousers and a round black helmet. One of the women told police the boy had earlier been seen loitering around Bilarong Reserve on his e-bike.
A further report was made on Monday by a woman who alleged she had been sexually touched by a man on an e-bike while walking beside Narrabeen Lagoon on October 1. She described him as being in his 20s, of Caucasian appearance and about 175cm tall.
Detectives from the Sex Crimes Squad are working with local police as part of the investigation. Officers will examine whether the similarities in the accounts point to one offender or multiple people.
Police are appealing for information, mobile phone or dashcam footage, and details from anyone who may have witnessed any of the incidents. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
