Deux femmes accusées d'agression raciale dans le centre-ville de Sydney

Two women have been charged with assault following an alleged racial attack on three Chinese international students in Sydney's central business district. The incident occurred on July 25 during a night out, according to reports from local media. Lenny Tai, 29, Minghao Zhan, 20, and a third unnamed friend were waiting near Central Station for a ride-share when they were confronted by two women who reportedly taunted them from the opposite side of the road. The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation, captured on video by Zhan. The video shows one of the women shouting, “You wanna f---ing say that c---? In Australia? … You will never be let back in our country,” before beginning to shove and grab the men. Tai described being grabbed by the neck, choked, and scratched on the face by the two women. The attack took place on the corner of Pitt Street and Hay Street in Haymarket. The two women, aged 26 and 33, were arrested on the evening of July 25 and later charged with common assault and using offensive language in a public place. They were released on bail and scheduled to appear in court on September 2. According to statements made to The Sydney Morning Herald, Tai has remained at home since the incident, unable to leave due to the trauma of the experience. He shared that he suffers from recurring nightmares and has difficulty sleeping or eating. “It’s painful for me to recall that night,” he told the newspaper. Zhan expressed similar feelings of fear and anxiety, noting that the incident has raised concerns about public safety for international students in Sydney. “I feel really scared,” Zhan said. “I think it’s not just Chinese students … These people hate Asians.” The incident has sparked discussions about racial tensions and the experiences of international students in Australia. While the police have confirmed the arrest and charges against the two women, there are no official statements yet regarding the broader context of the attack or whether other individuals were involved. The victims, however, have emphasized the emotional impact of the event. Tai mentioned that he lives close to the location of the incident and feels unsafe in the area. Zhan added that the attack highlights a growing sense of unease among Asian communities in the city. Authorities have not commented publicly on the case beyond confirming the arrests and charges. However, local community groups have expressed concern over the incident, calling for increased awareness and support for international students facing discrimination or harassment. Some advocates have urged authorities to take further steps to ensure the safety of all residents, regardless of their national origin. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on the personal accounts of the victims and the broader implications of the attack. The case underscores the challenges faced by international students in navigating both cultural and social environments in Australia. With the trial set for September, the outcome could influence future policies and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and safety in urban centers like Sydney. For now, the victims continue to process the aftermath of the incident, seeking closure while advocating for greater understanding and protection within their community.