Sydney : In yet another attack targeting Indians in Australia, a 28-year-old man was beaten up by a group of locals on a Sydney beach, prompting the police to arrest one of the assailants.

The Indian, a permanent resident, was assaulted on the Coogee Beach on Monday, authorities said on Tuesday. The New South Wales police arrested a person in connection with the attack and charged him with assault. A court granted bail to the arrested person with conditions. The matter is listed for hearing on February 24. Investigations are on to establish whether any other individuals are involved in the incident, a statement said, adding the victim was being informed of the developments by the New South Wales police.

The victim, who refused to be named, apparently for safety reasons, told PTI that he was kicked and punched by a group of assailants.He said he was living in Australia for the past 11 years and had never had such an experience before.

While the man did not suffer any external wounds, he said he had severe pain in the neck, back and head.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said India and Australia shared an “excellent relationship” and did not want the issue of attacks on Indians, mostly students, here to disturb the friendly ties.