Limpopo man accused of using Tinder to lure, rape, and kill women arrested
A 37-year-old man has been arrested in Limpopo in connection with more than 10 cases of rape and murder committed in Eesterust, Gauteng, after allegedly using the popular dating app, Tinder, to lure his victims.
The suspect was apprehended during a coordinated operation between Sunday evening, August 3, and the early hours of Monday, August 4, at Mentz village in the Mankweng policing area.
The operation involved multiple specialised units, including the Limpopo Tracking Team, Provincial Investigation Unit, Silverton Detectives, Tshwane FCS, and Tshwane District Detectives.
“According to information, the suspect utilised the Tinder dating site to lure his victims to his residence in Eesterust, Pretoria. He allegedly raped some of his victims, until the recent incident wherein he raped and killed the victim, thereafter, buried her in a shallow grave in his residence,” said police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
Police said the investigation was sparked by the discovery of a victim, whose body was found buried in the suspect’s yard. “A thorough investigation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of the suspect at his hiding place, in Mentz village, Mankweng Policing area, Limpopo province,” added Ledwaba.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Provincial Commissioner of the Police in Limpopo, has since issued a stern warning to the public, particularly women, about the dangers of online dating platforms.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, cautioned community members, especially women to be very careful when using the dating sites.
“As we celebrate women’s month, let’s be cautious at all times and we should mind who we associate ourselves with. Report any suspicious movements or abuse to the police, always share your location with your family and avoid meeting strangers at private spaces,” said Hadebe.
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