Gang Of Organised Teens Responsible For Wave Of Anti-Gay Violence, Say NSW Police
In an investigative feature, Perry Duffin, writing in The Age reveals a disturbing series of attacks across Sydney, where organised groups of teenagers are using dating apps to target men in public spaces.
Multiple police strike forces, launched since January, are investigating these systematic attacks spanning Sydney’s northern beaches, western and south-western suburbs. The incidents follow a similar pattern: victims arrange meetings in public parks through dating apps, only to face groups of teenagers who assault and rob them.
The violence has spread across several locations, including Auburn, Burwood, Campbelltown and the Sydney CBD. In one incident, a 21-year-old man was followed through Raw Square in Auburn by four males who attacked and robbed him and his friend.
Strike Force Response
NSW Police has established two key operations in response. Strike Force Section, created in April, focuses on crimes around Auburn and surrounding areas. Strike Force Dividing has charged 14 young people related to attacks in the northern beaches.
The attackers often record these incidents and post them on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, as part of what they call “pedo hunting.” However, police confirm most victims were simply seeking to meet consenting adults.
These attacks echo the concerning pattern of hate crimes that occurred between 1970 and the 2000s. The NSW government and Police have since apologised for past failures in protecting vulnerable community members.
Safety Recommendations
ACON and NSW Police strongly advise meeting in public places and verifying identities beforehand. They recommend sharing meeting locations with trusted friends and reporting any incidents immediately to authorities. The police spokeswoman emphasises these attacks are treated with the utmost seriousness.
