Merritt RCMP adding voice to dating app warnings

The Merritt detachment of the RCMP is lending its voice to recent warnings from authorities about the possible dangers of gay-dating apps after the recent death of Muhammad “Ash” Zafar of Kamloops on Jan. 5.

Zafar’s death has prompted B.C. RCMP to issue warnings regarding gay dating apps, like Grindr, that target men for robberies, violent assaults, and homicide.

In an email to Q101 News, Staff Sergeant Josh Roda said the local detachment has had no reports of any altercations.

“We’ve had no reports of violence associated with any dating sites,” wrote Roda. ” We’d encourage the public to use caution while engaging with people on online dating sites. Trust your instincts, if something feels off, back off or proceed carefully.”

The killing of Zafar is not the only homicide in the province to garner attention about the possible dangers associated with dating apps or men-seeking-men websites.

In January 2024, Alexander Lo was beaten and stabbed to death by Dwight Kematch after the pair met on Grindr.

Roda added that users of any dating app should always be wary of potential scammers patrolling social media sites for their next victim.

“As always, we ask that you use extreme caution on any social media platform,” he noted. ” Don’t give out your personal information, including full names, addresses, and banking information.”

He also suggested it would be a good idea that when choosing to meet up with anyone you’ve met online, to meet in public areas.