Police are urging dating app users to take extra care when meeting strangers, after two men were violently attacked in suspected ambushes in Invercargill within the space of two days.

Both victims were lured to Queens Park late at night by people they had only spoken to online, with one left in critical condition.

While police have not named the app involved, chrislynchmedia.com understands the meet ups were arranged through Grindr.

Southland Area Prevention Manager acting Inspector Mel Robertson said the assaults appeared to be planned and deliberate.

“In both incidents reported to Police, it appears people are using these apps to lure people to secluded locations late at night with the intention to attack them,” Robertson said.

“One victim is in critical care following an assault on Friday 8 May, and a second victim sustained serious injuries following an attack on Sunday 10 May.”

“Both these reported incidents occurred in the Queens Park area.”

Robertson said the apparent pattern, of offenders engaging people online and then directing them to quiet locations at night, was deeply concerning.

“These alleged offenders are engaging with people on these apps with the intention of meeting them in quiet areas at nighttime to attack them,” she said.

“Not only are they taking advantage of people’s trust, but they are planning these attacks with the intention to seriously injure these people.”

Police are continuing inquiries into both assaults and are working to identify and locate the alleged offenders.

In the meantime, Robertson urged anyone planning to meet someone from a dating app to take some basic precautions.

“We urge anybody who is planning to meet someone from a dating app to choose a location which is public, or well lit at night, as well as letting someone trusted know your plans and movements,” she said.

Police are appealing to anyone who has information about either assault, or who was in the Queens Park area between 6pm and 4am from Friday 8 May to Sunday 10 May, to come forward.

Information can be reported to Police on 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 260510/6480.

Anonymous tips can also be passed on to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.