The Uvongo Community Police Forum (UCPF) has issued a safety notice warning residents about a dangerous trend involving gender-based violence and targeted attacks on the LGBTQ+ community.

According to the UCPF, criminal syndicates are using online dating applications to lure victims into isolated areas.

The forum said perpetrators create fake profiles on popular dating apps and target individuals, specifically within the LGBTQ+ community.

A legitimate-looking date or meetup is arranged, after which the victim is allegedly ambushed by four to five aggressive attackers.

Victims reportedly face assault, robbery, extortion, and violence.

The UCPF is urging residents to take the following precautions when meeting someone for the first time:

* Meet only in public places and never at a private residence or secluded location

* Verify profiles and be cautious of accounts with few photos or unverified statuses

* Share your location with a trusted friend or family member and drop a live pin

* Trust your instincts and leave immediately if a situation or setup feels strange

Anyone who notices suspicious online activity or local incidents is urged to report them to Saps or their neighbourhood watch immediately.

The UCPF’s community safety number is 084-249-8246.

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