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Grindr Burglars Jailed in London After String of Home Thefts

The judge ruled the motive was opportunistic targeting of perceived vulnerability.

Overview

  • Rahmat Khan Mohammadi was sentenced to five years and Mohammed Bilal Hotak to three-and-a-half years at Isleworth Crown Court on 22 December.
  • The pair arranged home meet-ups via Grindr, asked victims to play YouTube to keep phones unlocked, then stole devices and used them for payments and transfers.
  • Met Police say the men were part of an organised group linked to about 35 burglaries and 20 related frauds between October 2024 and March 2025 affecting 22 victims.
  • Detectives tied the suspects to the offences using extensive CCTV, ANPR data, and phone records, leading to April arrests and jury convictions on 4 November.
  • Victim statements detailed severe psychological harm and losses, and police highlighted work with the Met’s LGBT+ Advisory Group and GALOP to support victims and build trust.