Four teenagers will appear in the Invercargill Youth Court tomorrow in connection to the recent dating app assaults in Invercargill.
Two 15-year-old males and two 16-year-old males were charged on Tuesday with aggravated burglary after what police called "an intensive investigation".
Police confirmed four separate attacks took place between May 8 and 10, two of them in Queens Park.
Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell said he was "absolutely delighted" by the development.
"It’s great that police have taken the matter so seriously and have made arrests so quickly."
Southland area prevention manager Acting Inspector Mel Robertson said police inquiries had established four separate incidents where dating apps were used to lure victims to different locations with the intention to violently assault them.
"The offending was deliberate, co-ordinated and extremely dangerous."
She described the level of violence used as "deeply concerning", and said the outcome was close to being far worse.
"One more strike, one more kick, and the outcome could have been fatal."
Police have stated their concerns are growing over the influence of social media trends that "glorify this type of offending".
"Let us be clear — this behaviour is completely unacceptable.
"All four youth are old enough to understand what they’re doing and choosing to participate in this harmful behaviour will have major consequences," she said.
Acting Insp Robertson said the investigation was ongoing and further arrests and charges were expected.
She encouraged anyone with information relating to the attacks to come forward.
"You will help prevent further harm."
Police again urged the public to be careful when engaging with others online and report any suspicious behaviour.
Acting Insp Robertson also acknowledged the investigation team ‘‘who have worked tirelessly to identify and apprehend those responsible in a very short period of time’’.
‘‘Their commitment has ensured swift accountability for those involved,’’ she said.
Police remained committed to protecting the community and would pursue anyone involved in this type of offending. — additional reporting Allied Media