A Gauteng Dating App predator has been arrested after he went on a string of violent crimes where he acted as if he was looking for love.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed the arrest of an alleged serial offender linked to numerous sexual assault cases across Gauteng province.
Coordinated Police Operation Leads to Arrest
The breakthrough came during a pre-dawn operation in Mentz village, located within the Mankweng police jurisdiction of Limpopo province. Multiple specialized police units collaborated to track down and apprehend the suspect.
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba revealed disturbing details about the suspect’s methods:
“Our investigation indicates the individual exploited a popular dating application to identify and entice victims to his Pretoria residence in Eesterust, where the assaults allegedly occurred.”
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Dating App Predator Arrested After String of Violent Crimes
Authorities report the criminal pattern culminated in a particularly brutal incident where a victim was not only sexually assaulted but also subsequently murdered.
Forensic evidence suggests the suspect attempted to conceal this crime by burying the victim in a shallow grave on the property.
Investigators have issued a public request for any other potential victims to file reports at their nearest police station.
“We believe there may be additional cases connected to this individual or similar offenders,” Ledwaba stated.
The accused is scheduled for an initial court appearance in Pretoria in the coming days as prosecutors prepare formal charges.
Police Commissioner’s Safety Advisory
Limpopo’s top police official, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, emphasised crucial safety measures for online daters:
- Carefully vet all new acquaintances
- Immediately report any suspicious behaviour to authorities
- Always share meeting details with trusted contacts
- Arrange first encounters in secure public locations
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This case highlights the ongoing risks associated with digital dating platforms and the importance of personal safety precautions when meeting strangers.