Trio accused of kidnapping, extorting CT men using Grindr to plead not guilty, says defence
The three suspects are alleged to have used the dating app to target their victims, later kidnapping them, holding them hostage, and extorting money from them once they have met in person.
Suspects of the 'Grindr Gang', an alleged kidnapping syndicate targeting gay men. Picture: Ntuthuzelo Nene/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN - An attorney representing three men accused of kidnapping and extorting gay men in Cape Town will plead not guilty to the charges against them.
The trio from Soweto, Gauteng, appeared at the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Friday, and the matter's been postponed to 1 August for a bail application.
It's alleged that Mlungisi Mbuthu, Bongani Zulu and Zwelakhe Ngwenya would target their unsuspecting victims on the dating app, Grindr.
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It's alleged that they would kidnap their targets, hold them hostage and extort money from them.
The State said at least seven men have come forward claiming to be victims of the trio and intend to add more charges against the accused.
The attorney for the accused, Nceba Jack, said, "The State is entitled to bring any charges, whether they'll be able to prove them or not is something else.”
"At this stage, we allow them to do their investigation as requested, and we have granted them."