Four teenagers have been arrested and charged over an alleged blackmail scam in Canberra. The youthful foursome, which includes two brothers, are accused of targeting gay men through online dating apps.

Last month concern was raised regarding reports that gay men were being extorted after making connections via hook-up apps.

ACT based organisation The AIDS Action Council has put out a warning to local men after they received reports about a group of 3-4 people targeting people.

The ABC has reported that police have now arrested four people and they have been denied bail and scheduled to reappear before the courts next week. The accused are a 15 year old, two 16 year-olds and an 18 year old.

Police told the court one of the alleged victims of the scam, who was from New South Wales, had taken his own life. Police argued that the accused should not be granted bail as they were concerns about them interfering with evidence or contacting witnesses.

All four were refused bail and remanded in custody.

OIP Staff