Police in Graz have arrested a 36-year-old homeless and unemployed man following a series of sexual harassment incidents targeting women in the city’s Straßgang district. According to reports from the Polizei Steiermark, the suspect allegedly approached victims from behind on a bicycle, grabbed them, and then rode away silently.
The investigation accelerated after witnesses provided investigators with photographs of the suspect. Authorities have confirmed that three official complaints were filed regarding incidents that occurred between August 2 and August 4, 2026, though officials believe there may be additional unreported victims.
The targeted women were walking with their dogs in the vicinity of the Straßgang public bath when the attacks took place. Among the victims identified in the police reports is a 13-year-old girl, with the age range of the known complainants spanning up to 59 years old, according to regional news reports.
Investigators from the Graz-Kärntner Straße police station used the witness photographs to step up patrols in the affected area. On August 10, a patrol car spotted a cyclist whose appearance closely matched the descriptions and images provided by witnesses. Acting on orders from the Graz Public Prosecutor’s Office, officers detained the man.
Arrest and Detention at Jakomini Prison
The suspect, identified in police statements as a 36-year-old Croatian national without permanent housing or employment, was taken into custody by the Graz City Police Command’s criminal reference bureau. During his initial interrogation, the man denied the allegations against him. Following instructions from prosecutors, he was transferred to Graz-Jakomini Prison pending further legal proceedings.
Public Appeal for Witnesses and Potential Victims
During the questioning phase, police uncovered indications that the suspect may be responsible for additional acts that have not yet been reported to authorities. Because of these findings, the Graz police have issued a public appeal encouraging any additional victims or witnesses to come forward.
Individuals who experienced similar encounters or observed suspicious behavior in the Straßgang area are urged to contact any local police station in Graz to file a report.
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