Police in Invercargill have issued an urgent warning to dating app users following two violent attacks in the Queens Park area where victims were lured to secluded locations.
The incidents occurred over a single weekend, beginning late at night on Friday, May 8. The first assault left one individual in critical care. A second, similar attack took place on Sunday, May 10, resulting in another person being seriously injured.
Predatory Patterns Identified
Inspector Mel Robertson stated that there appears to be a calculated pattern behind these assaults. According to Robertson, individuals are utilizing dating applications to entice victims to quiet areas under the cover of night with the specific intent to cause harm.
“In both incidents reported to police, it appears people are using these apps to lure people to secluded locations late at night with the intention to attack them,” Robertson said. She further emphasized that the alleged offenders are “taking advantage of people’s trust” and planning these encounters with the intention to seriously injure their victims.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Authorities are currently working to identify and locate the alleged offenders. Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the assaults or who was present in the Queens Park area between 6 p.m. And 4 a.m. From Friday, May 8, through Sunday, May 10.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact police via 105.
Safety Recommendations for App Users
In light of these events, police are urging those who meet people from online platforms to take proactive steps to “protect themselves.” Recommended safety measures include:
- Choosing a well-lit, public location for any initial meetings.
- Informing a “trusted” person about their planned movements and location.
Potential Next Steps
As the investigation continues, police may be able to identify suspects if members of the public provide information regarding the Queens Park area during the specified timeframe. Depending on the findings, authorities could potentially issue further safety advisories or increase patrols in secluded public spaces to deter similar planned attacks.
