Arrests after online blackmail and robbery

ACT Policing has arrested an 18-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy after an investigation into blackmail and robbery.

On Thursday (5 November 2020) the victim agreed to a meeting arranged via a dating application.

When the man arrived at the meeting location in Hawker, he was approached by two people who then threatened him with a knife. They forced the man to withdraw cash from an ATM, stole further items from his car, and demanded more money be paid at a later date.

The man reported the incident to police, and a team led by ACT Policing Criminal Investigations established the identities and locations of the offenders.

About 8.55am on Saturday (7 November) the 18-year-old man was arrested at a hotel in Narrabundah. The 16-year-old boy was arrested at his home in Hawker about 3.55pm.

Detective Inspector Matt Reynolds said that while blackmail is uncommon, it is taken seriously by police.

“Intimidating someone for property and cash is disgraceful and unacceptable, and when this matter was reported to police, it received a swift response,” Detective Inspector Reynolds said.

“Sadly, with more people using online dating sites and online applications, some people have decided to use those services to manipulate, threaten or rob others”

“As with any online service, people need to remember they may be dealing with someone using the internet to take advantage of others. When arranging to meet someone through one of these sites, people should act carefully to make sure that first meeting is in a safe place.”

The man will appear before the ACT Magistrates Court and the boy will appear before the ACT Children’s Court. Both appearances are due on Monday, 9 November.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au