In a decisive ruling that brings closure to one of Australia's most disturbing criminal cases, the notorious Skaf brothers have been refused parole and will likely spend the remainder of their lives behind bars.
Bilal Skaf, 41, and his brother Mohammed Skaf, 39, were the ringleaders of a predatory gang that terrorised Sydney during a three-week period in August 2000, committing a series of brutal gang rapes that stunned the nation with their depravity.
The Crimes That Shocked Australia
The brothers orchestrated multiple attacks where they and their accomplices lured vulnerable young women to isolated locations under false pretences. Their reign of terror culminated in what became known as the 'rape camp' at Gosling Park in Greenacre, where they systematically assaulted their victims while other gang members stood guard.
One particularly harrowing incident involved a 16-year-old girl who was raped by 14 men over six hours in a coordinated attack that demonstrated the gang's chilling level of organisation.
Justice Served: Maximum Security and Parole Denied
Both brothers received life sentences for their central role in the atrocities. Bilal Skaf, initially sentenced to 55 years with a 40-year non-parole period, saw his sentence reduced to 28 years on appeal. Mohammed Skaf received 32 years with a 22-year non-parole period.
The New South Wales State Parole Authority has now confirmed that both men remain unacceptable risks to community safety. Their latest parole bids have been comprehensively rejected, ensuring they will remain in maximum security confinement.
Lasting Impact and Legal Legacy
The Skaf gang case prompted significant changes to New South Wales sexual assault laws and sentencing guidelines. The sheer brutality and organised nature of the crimes led to public outcry and legal reforms aimed at ensuring such systematic sexual violence would never again escape severe punishment.
Despite numerous appeals and parole attempts over two decades, the brothers have shown minimal remorse for their actions, according to psychological assessments presented to parole boards.
With their continued imprisonment, Australian authorities have sent a clear message that crimes of such calculated cruelty will never be tolerated by the justice system or the community it protects.
