Alleged Tinder killer to remain behind bars as probe deepens

August 6, 2025 1162

36-year-old alleged Tinder rapist and killer, Helder Isidro, will remain behind bars for nearly three months as police investigate his suspected involvement in a string of rapes and murders in Pretoria.

Isidro made a brief appearance at the Pretoria Magistrates Court today, where he abandoned his bail application. He faces charges including murder, rape, and defeating the ends of justice following his arrest on Monday.

He’s accused of using a dating app to lure women to his home in Eersterust, where he allegedly raped them. His arrest came after police discovered the body of missing 30-year-old, Loveness Magabe, buried in a shallow grave on his property.

His case has been postponed to October 15th.

Gauteng NPA spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, says they are confident they have the right suspect. Isidro will face an additional rape charge in his next court appearance.

But fear continues to grip the Eersterust community.

Residents believe the wrong person may be in custody, citing another violent attack on a woman near the Eersterust Train Station just last night. They say they believe the real perpetrator remains at large and are pleading for increased police visibility.

“We are really crying out for help. We can’t sleep, we have nightmares. There are drugs on every corner. We are desperate,” says local resident Fiona White.

Not In My Name spokesperson Themba Masango is calling on police to conduct a thorough investigation into Isidro’s offences.

Isidro’s alleged offences, which include the rape and murder of multiple women in Pretoria, have sparked public outrage — with mounting calls for police to urgently deal with what’s suspected to be a serial killer on the loose in Eersterust.

Some residents remain convinced the real perpetrator is still roaming their streets, as more brutal incidents involving women continue to be reported in the area.

Not In My Name spokesperson, Themba Masango, has called on police to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation.

He also urged police to clarify their statements after reports emerged linking Isidro to a new rape charge.

While the investigation continues, Masango says the public must give law enforcement space to do their work and bring justice to the victims and their families.