Syndicate targeting LGBTQI community nabbed

A kidnapping syndicate allegedly targeting the LGBTQI community was nabbed in Parktown, Johannesburg.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the gang would use a dating app designed for the LGBTQI community to target and lure victims to secluded places, kidnap and then rob them.

Mathe says over the weekend, a 26-year-old man was lured, kidnapped and robbed of his personal belongings including bank cards.

The matter was reported to the Mondeor Police Station, and the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team was informed, using intelligence they located the suspects and swooped in on four men at a restaurant where they found the victim’s belongings including bank cards, wallet, bag and cellphone.

Thabo Ndlovu, 33, Ndumiso Mahlangu 27, Sibusiso Tshabalala 27 and Elson Nyati 25, were arrested and have already appeared before the Booysens Magistrate’s Court.

Each of them face charges of hijacking, kidnapping and extortion.

The victim’s hijacked vehicle, a Mercedes C180, has not yet been recovered and the search continues for the vehicle. However, the victim was rescued and reunited with his family.

#sapsGP A group of 4 men who target members of the public on a dating app based on their sexual orientation, were arrested at a restaurant in Parktown. A 26yr-old man who was kidnapped, rescued and has since been reunited with his family. TMhttps://t.co/C7RuioGkXn pic.twitter.com/A2V8mQqskq

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) February 16, 2023