The WA Police Force is investigating several assaults that are believed to be targeted attacks by a group of males after their victims were lured to locations using a dating app.
In each instance, the male victims – who believe they have been speaking to legitimate users – have agreed to meet someone they have connected with on a dating app earlier.
Upon arrival to the agreed upon location, they have been surrounded and assaulted by several males while being subjected to homophobic slurs.
In some instances, the victim’s car is damaged as they attempt to retreat from the situation.
Some of these assaults have been filmed and posted to social media.
Detectives have spoken to a number of victims and several investigative actions are currently underway.
The WA Police Force is urging people who identify with the diverse sexuality and/or gender (DSG) community to exercise caution when arranging meetings through online dating websites and applications.
“We know this has been a distressing situation for the victims involved. This is why we’re working tirelessly to track down these offenders and hold them to account,” Detective Inspector Matt Froude said.
“We take this behaviour extremely seriously and there is no place for this kind of targeted violence in our community.
“Anyone who has been engaging in this kind of behaviour should be expecting WA Police officers to come through their door.
“While incidents of this nature are rare, we treat them with the utmost seriousness and we encourage victims to come forward so we can investigate.”
Detective Inspector Froude said everyone has a right to meet new people and start a relationship in safety, but urged dating app users to take steps to ensure their own personal safety.
“If you arrange to meet with someone over a dating app, meet in a public, well-lit place with plenty of people around,” Detective Inspector Froude said.
“Let your family and friends know where you are going and who you are arranging to meet.
“Some of these apps have built in safety features that allow you to share your live location with trusted contacts for added security during meet ups.”
Anyone with information in relation to these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online via www.crimestopperswa.com.au.
If have believe you have been a victim, or if you know someone who has been targeted, please contact police on 131 444, or report the information via the Safe2Say online reporting platform.
End release.
Police Media Unit
18 September 2024
MEDIA REF: 22609
