Boy, 10, arrested after alleged sexual assault of a tourist in Cairns

Queensland police say a 10-year-old boy has been arrested after a woman was allegedly sexually assaulted in the state’s far north.

Det Insp Kevin Goan said a 23-year-old woman was walking in the Cairns CBD at about 10am on Wednesday when the 10-year-old allegedly sexually assaulted her.

The woman, a tourist from Italy, called for police after the assault, and was then “set upon” by several other boys, Goan said.

Four “juveniles” were arrested soon after including the 10-year-old boy.

The woman suffered minor bruising and scratches to her head and face but did not require hospitalisation.

The alleged offenders were able to be arrested quickly because of an extensive network of CCTV around Cairns, he said.

“No doubt [this was] a traumatic experience for the young lady and one we certainly hope won’t blemish her experience of touring in Far North Queensland.”

Goan said other boys who were allegedly present were also expected to be arrested and called for any witnesses to the alleged incident at the corner of Lake and Spence streets to contact police.