Authorities in Australia have made progress in the investigation into the 2022 deaths of two Saudi Arabian sisters whose bodies were discovered inside their Sydney apartment. Asra Abdullah Alsehli, 24, and Amaal Abdullah Alsehli, 23, were found deceased in June 2022 after their landlord reported they had not paid rent for several months. Police previously described the circumstances surrounding their deaths as “suspicious” and “unusual.”
The sisters, who had moved to Sydney in 2017 and were reportedly seeking asylum, were discovered naked in separate rooms of the apartment. According to Australian media, bottles of toxic substances were found near their bodies, though authorities have not formally ruled on the cause or manner of death.
Investigation Referred to Crown Solicitor
In a recent development, the case has been referred to the Crown Solicitor’s Office, which provides legal advice to the New South Wales government. The referral is intended to support the ongoing coronial investigation as officials work to determine what happened.
Reports indicate that in the months leading up to their deaths, the sisters appeared to be living in significant fear. They reportedly believed someone was following them and attempting to harm them. On one occasion, they contacted building management asking for security footage to be reviewed because they suspected their food delivery had been tampered with. A building employee later told media that the sisters seemed both frightened and paranoid, though the reason for their fears remains unclear.
Background and Unanswered Questions
The sisters had reportedly told others they fled Saudi Arabia due to safety concerns. One had allegedly escaped a forced marriage, and both attended LGBTQ community gatherings in Sydney, where they discussed fears about threats to LGBTQ individuals in their home country. Attendees of one such gathering recalled the sisters expressing gratitude for being able to live more freely in Australia.
Despite the passage of time, many questions remain unanswered about the exact circumstances of their deaths. Authorities continue to investigate, with the coronial process now receiving additional legal support.
