'Particular interest' in van after sex assault on teen

A man is behind bars accused of raping a teenager at knifepoint and police are concerned the very serious sexual assault may not have been an isolated incident.

Malik Bilal Ahmad, 33, was refused bail on Wednesday after being arrested over the alleged rape of a teenager in Sydney's west.

Police allege he approached a teenager at Mt Druitt train station early on Thursday morning, taking them to a nearby park before threatening them with a knife and sexually assaulting them.

Ahmad was arrested on Tuesday night and charged with aggravated sexual intercourse with a child aged between 10 and 14 and intentionally sexually touching a child aged between 10 and 16.

He returns to court in October.

Detective Superintendent Grant Taylor said there was no ongoing risk to the community, but appealed for information from the public.

Police have "a particular interest" in a 2024 white Toyota HiAce van with heavily tinted windows, sliding side doors and black and white number plates which may have been seen being used suspiciously in the Mt Druitt area. 

"We're very keen to know if anyone has any more information on this van or this person ... to see if this person has preyed on any other vulnerable young kids," Det Supt Taylor told reporters on Wednesday.

"We have concerns that may well be the case."

Sex Crimes Squad commander Jayne Doherty earlier urged the public to look out for children in their communities and report anyone acting suspiciously.

“If you’re a victim of sexual violence please reach out to police or support services," she said.

"You will be supported during this difficult time."

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for people aged 5 to 25)

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