FIVE teenagers have been arrested over the shocking gang-rape of a homeless girl in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

Detectives yesterday questioned three of the young men over allegations the victim was lured to a lane and attacked in Brunswick in February.

Those arrested in the past week have included a Point Cook 18-year-old and two 18-year-olds from Hoppers Crossing.

Two 17-year-olds from unnamed suburbs have also been arrested over the victim's horrifying ordeal.

Detectives last month went public looking for assistance to identify those responsible, releasing images of a group of males they said might have been able to help the inquiry.

They said at the time that the 16-year-old girl had been looking for temporary accommodation in Brunswick at midnight on February 23.

She became involved in a conversation with a group of men at a Sydney Rd nightclub who said they could help.

The victim followed them to Tinning St where she was led into an alley and raped by three of the group.

A fourth was interrupted during the assault by someone police described as an "unknown person".

Police are investigating whether one or more of the group kept watch for the others during the attack.

No charges have yet been laid. "Police are hoping to lay charges in the next week," a Victoria Police spokeswoman said.

Investigators are still looking for witnesses or anyone else able with information on the attack.

News of the arrests came after it was revealed last week a young tourist was allegedly held captive for seven weeks at an apartment complex in Preston late last year.

Two people have been accused of keeping the 21-year-old prisoner from November 15 until Christmas Day in a room at the Bell City complex.

The incidents are not connected.

Anyone able to help police about the Brunswick attack can call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppers.com.au