SAPS warns online daters after robbery and rape cases in Kempton Park

The South African Police Service has issued a warning to people using dating apps and social media as police continue investigating the deaths of four women found in Kempton Park.

Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana said officers had also identified a separate concerning crime pattern involving people who meet others online.

To date, police have recorded about 10 cases in which victims allegedly connected with people through dating platforms or social media before agreeing to meet them.

Suspects then allegedly lured victims to locations where they robbed or sexually assaulted them.

SAPS has not linked these online dating cases to the deaths of the four women.

SAPS urges caution when meeting people online

Kekana urged the public to take basic safety precautions when meeting someone for the first time.

Police advised users not to share unnecessary personal information with strangers online.

SAPS also warned people against agreeing to meet in isolated areas.

“When meeting someone for the first time, choose a public place and ensure that a trusted family member or friend knows where you are, who you are meeting and where you will be,” Kekana said.

He also urged people to leave immediately if they feel unsafe.

About 10 cases reported

Kempton Park Police Station has recorded about 10 cases linked to online meetings, according to Kekana.

The cases involve allegations of robbery, sexual assault or both.

SAPS has urged victims to report incidents as soon as possible and provide investigators with any available information about the people involved.

Police also encouraged users to keep records of online conversations where possible, particularly if they later need to assist an investigation.

The warning forms part of a broader safety message from SAPS as police respond to violent crime in the Kempton Park area.

Anyone who believes they have fallen victim to a crime should contact their nearest police station or report the matter through official SAPS channels.