A gang of thugs is attacking gay men in South London after setting up hook ups on the dating app.
A gang of men have reportedly mugged two gay men in South London after arranging a hook up with each of them through a dating app. Although the men were not hurt they were confronted with a gang of four who robbed them at knifepoint.
Detective constable Sheree Yates said: ‘The victims thankfully did not suffer serious physical injuries but have been left very shaken by these incidents.
‘We are keen to identify the suspects as soon as possible and are appealing to anyone with any information to contact the police.
‘We would also like to take this opportunity to reassure the LGBT community that we are doing everything we can to arrest these men.
‘I would urge everyone who uses online dating apps and sites to take steps to help them to stay safe whilst meeting strangers.’
Police are warning men who use Grindr and other dating apps to take extra precautions – including keeping your personal details private, making sure you drink responsibly and let friends or family know where you are going and at what time you expect to be back.
Their full list of tips reads:
Please consider the following safety tips when using a dating app:
– Don’t share personal details such as your home address until you can trust the person you are communicating with
– If you decide to meet in person, let someone know where you are going and when you’re likely to return
– Always meet in a public place with lots of people around
– Plan your journey to and from the date in advance. If using a mini cab always pre-book
– Drink responsibly and never leave your drink unattended
– Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and working
– If at any time your feel uncomfortable, leave the date – you are not obliged to stay
For further crime prevention and personal safety advice visit the Metropolitan Police website at http://content.met.police.uk/Site/victimadvice
Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Anyone who has been the victim of crime through online dating can contact police or Victim Support on 0808 1689 111
