The trial of seven men accused in the so-called “Grindr Gang” case has once again been postponed, with proceedings now scheduled to resume at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on 27 January 2027, followed by further trial dates on 7 and 8 February.
The trial centres on the alleged kidnapping, assault, extortion and attempted murder of a student who was lured through the Grindr dating app in September 2023.
The victim was allegedly taken to Denver Hostel, where he was tied up, assaulted, and used in ransom demands made to his family.
Seven accused — Sanele Ndlovu, Vikani Khanyeza, Sohollo Khumalo, Sphamandla Mavundla, Lungisani Mshabalala, Thulani Mazibuko and Khayelihle Zulu — face charges of kidnapping, extortion, attempted murder and theft.
The case returned to court on Tuesday, 27 October, after a previous postponement in September when one of the accused decided to change lawyers.
The latest postponement, to give the lawyer more time to review past hearing transcripts, extends a legal process that has already faced repeated delays, raising concerns about the emotional toll on the survivor and his family.
Survivor and Family Face Prolonged Wait for Justice
The trial began on 19 August 2025, after almost two years of delays. Since then, the court has heard testimony from the survivor, family members, police officers and investigating officers involved in the case.
When proceedings were expected to resume in August, the prosecution was anticipated to call three additional witnesses, likely including the doctor who treated the survivor and members of the forensic team who processed the crime scene.
The case is among the most high-profile prosecutions linked to so-called “Grindr Gang” attacks, in which queer men across South Africa have been targeted, robbed or assaulted after arranging meetings through dating apps.
The pattern of attacks remains an ongoing concern for the LGBTQ+ community. In March 2026, MambaOnline reported a community alert about an alleged Grindr Gang attack in Randburg, Johannesburg, highlighting the continued risks faced by queer men using dating platforms to connect with others.
LGBTQ+ Advocates Call for Timely Justice
Parents, Families & Friends of South African Queers (PFSAQ), which attended the latest court proceedings, expressed concern about the impact of the repeated postponements.
“The administrative delays in the Grindr seven trial that results in further postponement adds emotional strain on the survivor and his family. While we respect due process, we call for timely justice and remain committed to supporting the survivor and his parent throughout the legal proceedings,” the organisation said in a statement.
The next scheduled court dates will be closely watched by supporters and LGBTQ+ rights advocates, who continue to call for accountability and a justice process that recognises the impact of these attacks on survivors.
The case also underscores the importance of taking dating-app-related violence seriously, with activists encouraging safer online connections.
