More than 30 people, mostly teenage boys, have been arrested across Victoria over a string of violent attacks targeting men using dating apps and social media.
Incidents have been reported in areas including Hume, Casey, Knox, Moorabbin and Manningham, with arrests made since October last year.
Victoria Police allege groups of offenders, primarily aged 13 to 20, posed as legitimate users to lure victims into meeting before assaulting, robbing, threatening, and subjecting them to homophobic abuse.
Some victims were allegedly filmed, with videos shared online.
A 16-year-old was charged with intentionally and recklessly causing injury and possessing a prohibited weapon, while a 17-year-old was charged over similar offences and drug possession.
Several teens aged 13 to 17 face charges including armed robbery, kidnapping, violent disorder and false imprisonment.
Four 19-year-old males from Bayswater, Lyndhurst and Cranbourne East were also arrested, with three charged and bailed.
Acting Superintendent Carolyn Deer said the attacks were deeply concerning.
“Everyone has a right to go about their lives and meet people in safety,” Ms Deer said.
“Victoria Police is committed to the safety of LGBTIQA+ communities and will not tolerate this behaviour.”
Police urge anyone affected to come forward, and remind the public that reporting abuse to a dating app does not automatically alert authorities.
