Yires urged to be safe while looking for love online

With the festive season being synonymous with casual dating for some singles, Yires are urged to be cautious at all times, especially when using dating sites.

The appeal comes at the back of social media reports of a man targeting members of the LGBTQ plus community through a dating site called, Tinder.

The individuals allegedly also extort money from the victims by threatening to release private pictures, if they aren’t paid.

An abduction and extortion syndicate is making rounds in the Orange Farm and Vaal areas.

Sandile also known as Richard and his croonies target unsuspecting gay men who are looking for a good time via Tinder.

On the 29th November 2024; Sandile or Richard and his criminal… pic.twitter.com/j6mORwIPWn

— Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) December 1, 2024

South Africa’s second-oldest queer organisation, OUT LGBT Well-being, has condemned the resurgence of these incidents, labeling them as hate crimes.

“These incidents are not merely opportunistic crimes — they are hate crimes, weaponising the community’s specific vulnerabilities and marginalisation. We call on law enforcement to investigate and prosecute these acts with the seriousness they deserve. The emotional and psychological toll on victims, and the wider LGBTIQ+ community, is profound and long-lasting,” says the rights group.

“We are acutely aware that many of these crimes go unreported due to victims’ legitimate fears of stigma, shame, and secondary victimisation by authorities.  This perpetuates a cycle of silence and impunity. OUT is also dismayed by the boldness of these criminals and the apparent inability of the criminal justice system to address and prevent these attacks effectively. Bringing perpetrators to justice is essential for ensuring accountability and safety.”

The latest incident comes almost a year after several other kidnapping cases linked to queer dating app, Grinder, emerged.

OUT LGBT Well-being’s Luiz De Barros is advising Yires to always be cautious on social media, especially when meeting potential partners.

Use a Buddy System: Before meeting someone, arrange for a friend to be your safety buddy. Share your live location with them and schedule regular check-ins. Establish a secret word or code to alert them if you feel unsafe.

Meet in Public Places: Always choose a public venue for initial meetings. Have several public encounters before considering a private meeting.

Consider Queer-Friendly Venues: If the intention is purely sexual, consider venues like sex clubs or queer-friendly steam baths, where there is added safety in numbers.

Hide Banking Apps: Ensure that banking apps are not easily accessible on your phone. If possible, carry only a card linked to limited funds or cash.

Leave Valuables Behind: Minimise what you take with you to reduce the risk of theft. Bring only essential items.