The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has issued a stern warning to community members, particularly women, to exercise extreme caution when using online dating platforms. The warning follows the arrest of a 37-year-old man linked to over ten cases of rape and murder in Gauteng.
The suspect was apprehended during a joint operation conducted by the Limpopo Tracking Team, Limpopo Provincial Investigation Unit, Silverton Detectives, Tshwane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, and Tshwane District Detectives. The operation took place between the evening of Sunday, 03 August 2025, and the early hours of Monday, 04 August 2025, in Mentz Village, under the Mankweng policing area in Limpopo.
Modus Operandi: Dating Site Used to Lure Victims
Investigations reveal that the suspect used the popular dating app Tinder to lure his victims to his residence in Eesterust, Pretoria, Gauteng. After gaining their trust, he allegedly raped several women before his crimes escalated to murder. In the most recent incident, he reportedly raped and killed a victim before burying her in a shallow grave at his home.
The case came to light after police received a report, prompting an intensive investigation that led to the suspect’s arrest at his hideout in Limpopo. Authorities have since linked him to multiple cases of rape and murder in the Eesterust policing area.
Police Urge Vigilance, Especially During Women’s Month
With August being Women’s Month in South Africa, Lieutenant General Hadebe emphasized the need for heightened awareness.
“As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s be cautious at all times and 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 in private spaces,” she urged.
The police have also called on other potential victims of the suspect—or similar perpetrators—to come forward and report incidents at their nearest police stations to assist with ongoing investigations.
Suspect to Face Multiple Charges
The accused is expected to appear before the Pretoria Central Magistrate’s Court, where he will face charges of rape, murder, and defeating the ends of justice.
Authorities continue to warn the public about the dangers of online dating and encourage safe practices when interacting with strangers on digital platforms.
