Police search for gang after gay men were lured and attacked on Grindr

Police in the Australian Capital Territory are investigating after two gay men were lured to remote areas of Canberra via Grindr and then attacked.

The first attack occurred on July 16 in Ada Norris Avenue, Denman Prospect, where a group of four men attacked a gay man. Four days later, seven or eight men attacked and robbed another victim who was visiting a property on Investigator Street in the suburb of Red Hill, Q News reported.

The victim of the first attack managed to escape on his motorcycle, but his helmet and gloves were stolen.

During the later incident, the group allegedly shouted homophobic insults at the victim, a police spokesman said. The gang demanded money from the man and tried to steal his wallet and keys. The man’s car was also damaged.

“The man was able to escape but was pursued on foot by the group,” the spokesman said. “The group continued the attack in front of another residence on Investigator Street before the man was able to fight them off.”

Investigators are currently investigating whether there is a connection between the attacks and are urging users of dating apps such as Grindr to meet in public places rather than in secluded private homes.

Police ask for further information

The spokesman said: “We would encourage anyone with information about these incidents or other similar incidents where people may have been targeted because of their sexual orientation to come forward.”

Police would also like to speak to anyone who has video recordings of the incidents.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and quote reference number 7800123 (Denman Prospect) or 7803814 (Red Hill).