A young girl and her male friend were attacked by up to three people in Lurgan on Saturday evening.
Police are appealing for information following the “disturbing” incident in between the Portadown Road subway and the Old Portadown Road.
A PSNI spokesperson explained: “A child – a girl – was attacked initially by one adult male, and when her friend intervened to try and protect her, he too was attacked by the same male and two accomplices.
“We believe this had happened earlier in the night, around 9pm.
“As part of our follow up, we have established that there may have been numerous people in the area at the time, many of whom will have seen what happened.
“Our first arrest in the Tarry Lane area was for assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOABH).
“A short time later, a second male was arrested for two counts of AOABH, then further arrested for sexual assault on a different girl.”
The spokesperson added: “We frequently warn of the dangers of children congregating in such an area, however nothing can justify this. Predatory thugs have no place in society, but without your help, it is hard to get rid of them.”
Police are appealing for witnesses – who inevitable saw the attack take place – to come forward and help the victims.
“If you’re reading this and witnessed any of the attacks, think long and hard about it,” they added.
“Parents, you may already know your child was there. You may however think they were at “a sleep over” or similar.
“Talk to your kids. Please, take one for the victims here and let them know they aren’t in any trouble by stepping forward.
“Someone out there; probably several people in fact witnessed this and can make a huge difference for the victims. No night out, regardless of where it is, deserves to end up like this.”
The reference number is 1418 of 26/01/19. Alternatively you can speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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