Date Set for Trial of Johannesburg Grindr Gang Suspects

Activists have welcomed the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court’s decision to finally set a trial date for the seven men accused of being part of the so-called “Grindr gang.”

At a hearing on Thursday, the court confirmed that the trial will begin on 24 February 2025 and run until 27 February 2025. 

The men have been in custody since September 2023, charged with the kidnapping and brutal assault of a Johannesburg student, reportedly lured to a meeting through the Grindr dating app.

The case has seen numerous frustrating delays, repeatedly pushing back the trial date.

The accused – Sanele Ndlovu, Vikani Khanyeza, Sohollo Khumalo, Sphamandla Mavundla, Lungisani Mshabalala, Thulani Mazibuko, and Khayelihle Zulu – face charges of kidnapping, attempted murder, and extortion. 

Sibonelo Ncanana, Civil Society Engagement Officer for OUT LGBT Well-being, attended the hearing and expressed both relief and cautious optimism about the latest development in the case.

“As an organisation committed to supporting LGBTQ+ rights and safety, we have been deeply concerned by the delay in bringing this case to trial,” said Ncanana.

“Justice delayed is justice denied, and we recognise the emotional and psychological toll that such postponements have likely imposed on the victim and the wider LGBTQ+ community,” he continued.

“The extended wait for trial has left many feeling vulnerable and uncertain, underlining the importance of timely and effective responses to hate crimes,” added Ncanana.

OUT said in a statement that it views the case as a reminder of the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals online and the importance of robust legal protections.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for increased safety measures on digital platforms and stronger protections for vulnerable communities.

The suspects are accused of luring the 18-year-old Wits student to a fake date through Grindr on 19 September 2023. They allegedly held him against his will, subjected him to severe physical beatings, and demanded a ransom of R30,000 from his family.

The victim was rescued and the men arrested after one of the alleged perpetrators was caught by police attempting to withdraw ransom funds from an ATM. The student was so badly assaulted that he was admitted to ICU for several days.

Three other Gauteng men are facing similar charges in Cape Town in connection with several Grindr Gang attacks targeting queer men in that city. At least six victims have come forward, reporting incidents in the Cape Town CBD, Durbanville, Brackenfell, Claremont, and Camps Bay.

For more information about the risks of online dating in South Africa and safety tips, click here.