Central Coast men assaulted and robbed after dating app setups

The state’s hate crime unit has been notified and a plea has been issued for further potential victims after three men were lured to meetings by fake profiles on a male dating app before being seriously assaulted on the same day.

Police are investigating a series of assaults on the Central Coast after men reporting being lured by the dating app Grindr. Picture: Getty Images

Police are investigating a series of violent assaults and robberies on the Central Coast after three men were lured to meetings through a male dating app before being bashed.

Police said in a statement that the victims had been targeted in separate incidents on Sunday after being deceived by fake profiles on the dating app Grindr.

Upon arriving at prearranged locations in the southern end of the Central Coast, they men were ambushed, seriously assaulted, and robbed by an unknown group of offenders.

Brisbane Water Police District officers have launched inquiries into the attacks, with the NSW Police Force Engagement and Hate Crime Unit also notified.

The police statement said the unit was working closely with peak LGBTIQ representative groups to reinforce safety messaging within the community regarding the risks associated with online dating.

The statement said police had reaffirmed their commitment to treat bias-related crimes, including those motivated by perceived sexuality or gender, with the utmost seriousness.

Authorities have urged anyone who may have been a victim or witness to a hate-related crime to report it to police or contact LGBTIQ Liaison Officers.

Reports can also be made anonymously via Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1800 333 000.

Police also reminded all dating app users to take precautions when meeting people in person.

Originally published as Central Coast men assaulted and robbed after dating app setups