A MAN described as one of the "principal offenders" in a violent home invasion that left two students with acid burns has been charged..
Two men were doused with acid during the May 17 home invasion at Westmead in Sydney's west, police say.
Sri Lankan students Jayasri Watawala, 22, and Chathuika Weerasinghe, 27, suffered severe burns in the attack, and police have described their ongoing recovery as "difficult".
Amalathepan Srikantharajah, 25, of Girraween, was charged on Wednesday with attempted murder, break and enter with intent to commit murder, and maliciously cast or throw corrosive fluid with intent to maim.
"Police will allege that this is one of the principal offenders in the home invasion," Detective Inspector Albert Joseph told reporters.
"There are a number of offenders that we are still looking for."
Police allege a group of men forced their way into the house during the attack.
One of the victims was stabbed in the stomach and broke his ankle, and both men were admitted to hospital suffering life-threatening injuries.
"The rehabilitation has been a slow and lengthy process for them, it has been difficult, but their health is improving," Insp Joseph said.
"I can't comment on the permanency of their damage, but their injuries are considered to be severe and significant."
Srikantharajah had previously been charged with failing to disclose the identity of a driver or passenger of a vehicle - a matter mentioned at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court last week.
At that time, his solicitor said Srikantharajah was too ill to appear in court.
He has been refused bail on the latest charges and is expected to face Sydney's Central Local Court on Wednesday afternoon.
30 июн 2009
