5 suspects sought after sex assault, robbery at Spring Garden business

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are searching for five suspects who fled after forcing their way into a Spring Garden business early Saturday morning.

Officials say they robbed and sexually assaulted women inside at gunpoint.

Authorities say the incident happened around 4:40 a.m. on the 400 block of North 9th Street. A sign outside the building reads "9 VIP spa."

When officers arrived, the suspects fled, with some escaping across rooftops, police said. One suspect was taken into custody.

Investigators said officers apprehended Saidakhmad Bakiev, 18, on the roof of the building. He is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, rape and burglary.

People in the neighborhood said they were not surprised by the incident and described hearing police activity around the time it happened.

"Very unfortunate. I'm so sad that happened there. I don't know much about the incident, but it's very sad," one neighbor said.

Another neighbor described the scene shortly after the incident.

"A lot of commotion, a lot of people out on the street talking, kind of yelling," said Stephen Klingman.

Police said five men remain on the run and have released images of the suspects. Authorities described them as being in their late teens to early 20s, all with dark hair.

Residents in the area said they often see activity outside the business, including rideshare vehicles and taxis dropping people off.

"Mostly men. Of course, women aren't going to a massage place like that," one person said.

The investigation is ongoing. Police are urging anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information to contact authorities immediately.