A student was kidnapped for ransom in Johannesburg after he was lured into a trap by someone he met on the dating app Grindr.

The Witwatersrand university student (18) was kidnapped on Tuesday and reported missing by his roommate. Shortly thereafter his kidnappers demanded R30 000 from his family for his safe return.

A multi-disciplinary police team joined by several security companies followed up on information that led them to an ATM on the M2 where the suspects were going to withdraw the ransom money.

A suspect was arrested who then led the team to Denver Men’s Hostel, where the victim was found bound and unconscious.

Seven suspects were arrested, while three knives and the student’s personal items were also recovered.

Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko, has called on the public to be wary of cybercriminals targeting unsuspecting individuals on social media platforms.

The MEC also commended the rescue team for their efforts.

“I would like to commend the heroic law enforcement officials, who carried out the rescue operation. The successful apprehension of the suspects is a result of collaborative efforts by various law enforcement agencies and private security companies,” said MEC Mazibuko. – SAnews.gov.za