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Ross Giblin
Several women have been indecently assaulted near the Porirua train station. (File photo)
Police are concerned after a series of indecent assault incidents in Porirua that are believed to be related.
On Wednesday, police said the Porirua community should be on the alert after a series of incidents around the train station, where the women had been indecently assaulted.
Police confirmed Thursday that there have been a total of six reports since February, of women assaulted while walking along Awatea St, the Mungavin Ave underpass, and the Kivell St. area.
The most recent assault was reported on Friday.
Police are investigating CCTV footage as part of their investigation and are following positive lines of investigation.
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“We recognize that these incidents cause concern in our community and that local law enforcement is focused on identifying the person responsible and holding them accountable,” said Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander Inspector Tracey Thompson.
In May, police confirmed two sexual assaults at Bothamley Park in Porirua, including one in which a man grabbed a woman in broad daylight.
On May 8, a woman was followed by the man, believed to be between 18 and 22 years old, who then began yelling sexually explicit words at her, with his hands in his pants.
On May 13, the man approached another woman around 9:20 a.m. in the park, before grabbing her from behind and throwing her to the ground.
KITCHEN / ROBERT THINGS
Two women were assaulted by a man in May in Bothamley Park.
Police said that when she got up, the man exposed himself and indecently assaulted her. She later ran away after being scared by something.
On both days, the man wore a camouflage jacket, and police described him as slim and 180 to 190 centimeters tall.
“We are asking the public, especially those walking alone, to be alert and aware of their surroundings in the area.
“Most importantly, if you have information about these incidents or if you have been the victim of an incident of this nature, we urge you to call us.”
Information can be provided to Detective Sergeant Nathan Smith on 105, citing file number 200829/6042.
