Warnings after a rise in robberies in Bradford parks with victims snared using dating apps
Since October there has been five reports across the district all with the same pattern.
Detectives in Bradford District are raising awareness after there have been reports where people have been robbed following interactions on dating apps and social media.
Officers from Bradford CID are investigating a series of robberies in parks across the Bradford area where the victims who are all adults, have previously engaged with the suspect over social media and dating apps. They then have arranged to meet in person in a public park and have all been the victim of a robbery.
Since October there has been five reports across the district all with the same pattern. Personal items have been stolen.
Bradford CID are working with the local neighbourhood policing teams across the district to provide reassurance and give out crime prevention advice.
Detective Inspector Mike Ineson of Bradford CID said:
“We have issued this warning as a proactive measure to warn and educate people about the risks of meeting people online.
“I would like to praise the bravery of the victims who have reported these incidents to us. We are taking these offences seriously and our carrying out a number of lines of enquiry.
“We are also keen to speak to anyone who may have been a victim of this type of crime and hasn’t yet reported it to the police.”