Man arrested at Sydney Airport to face sexual assault charges

ACT Policing’s Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team (SACAT) has arrested a 25-year-old man as he attempted to leave the country following an investigation into an alleged sexual assault that occurred in the City earlier this year. 

Police allege that between 15 and 16 July 2023, the man sexually assaulted a girl several times in a Bunda Street nightclub, and in Bible Lane, Canberra City. 

The girl attended hospital after the incident and underwent a forensic medical examination. 

Following an investigation into the matter, the 25-year-old man - an Irish national - was arrested a Sydney International Airport prior to his departure on Saturday (16 December 2023). He faced Parramatta Local and District Court yesterday (Sunday, 17 December 2023) where his extradition to the ACT was granted. 

He is expected to face the ACT Magistrates Court today (Monday, 18 December 2023) to face charges including two counts of sexual intercourse without consent, and one count of attempted sexual intercourse without consent.  

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, you can report to police by attending a police station, calling 131 444, or by speaking to the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 02 6247 2525.  

You can also submit an online report for historical sexual assault for incidents that occurred more than six months ago. 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES  

POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070,  act-police-media@afp.gov.au