Police are appealing for witnesses after three girls wearing Muslim headdress were assaulted and racially abused in a Norlane park last week.
Investigators were told the three girls, aged 15, 12 and 11, were at the Sparks Road reserve on Wednesday 23 March when they were approached by a group of unknown youths, about 5.30pm.
The group of about 10 youths, a mix of boys and girls aged between seven and 16, racially vilified and assaulted the three girls, forcibly removing their headdresses.
The group began to punch them and as the girls attempted to call police, took their phones and smashed them.
Police have been told the unknown group then started throwing rocks towards the trio before leaving the area. The three girls suffered minor injuries.
Investigators believe a woman was also with the unknown group of youths at the time of the incident.
Acting Senior Sergeant Jonathan Parish said the incident was of great concern to Victoria Police.
“We are taking this incident very seriously. It is a sickening attack,” Act Sen Sgt Parish said.
“It’s extremely alarming given the girls’ ages. They should be able to go to a local park and enjoy time in the community without being subjected to this type of behaviour.
“We are mindful there is a degree of racial tension out there, not just in the Geelong community, it’s on the rise everywhere.”
Act Sen Sgt Parish said information was being provided to police.
“We are confident that we can bring these youths to justice. I would urge them to come forward and speak up and have this dealt with before we have to come knocking on doors.
“There was an older female with the group who holds important information and I would urge her to come forward.”
Act Sen Sgt Parish said police were concerned that one of the group was as young as seven.
“It is a concern that we have young impressionable minds that are being led by older kids engaging in these racial and religious attacks on the community
“Religious attacks and racial vilification are real so we need to get the strong message out.”
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to crimestoppersvic.com.au
Police advised anyone who witnessed, or was subject to, racism, discrimination or victimisation on the basis of religion, culture or nationality to inform Victoria Police.
