A Cunning Scheme: How Two Migrants Exploited a Dating App for Crime

Two individuals from Afghanistan found a twisted way to commit crimes. They used Grindr, a dating app for the LGBT community, to trick people.

• Rahmat Khan Mohammadi, 23, and Mohammed Bilal Hotak, 27, were recently sentenced for their actions.
• They stole items worth £68,000 over six months.

The Clever but Cruel Plan

• They made fake profiles on Grindr without photos.
• When someone showed interest, they sent pictures of other people.
• This made it hard for victims to recognize them later.
• They arranged to meet at the victims' homes.
• Once inside, they played music on YouTube to keep the phone unlocked.
• Then, they stole phones, passports, and wallets.

Psychological Harm and Sentencing

• The judge noted the psychological harm caused.
• Victims felt violated and traumatized.
• One victim lost photos of deceased relatives.
• Another needed hospital treatment.
• The judge did not call it a hate crime.
• She said the criminals saw Grindr as an easy way into homes.

Police Perspective

• The police described the crimes as callous and calculated.
• They also noted that LGBT communities often trust the police less.
• This made it harder for victims to come forward.
• The criminals likely counted on this fear to avoid getting caught.