Two Spanish-speaking thieves have drugged and robbed a series of men they met on gay dating app Grindr.

Detectives say four victims have reported being targeted so far between New Year’s Eve and January 9 in different parts of London.

They believe that more men have fallen prey to the pair and are encouraging other victims to come forward to report the crimes to the police.

The suspects, a large black man and a slimmer white man, have since fled the country.

Detective Superintendent Dan O’Sullivan said: “We believe other victims may have been targeted between the new year period and January 9, however for personal reasons may not have wanted to report it.

“If you have been a victim, you can report in confidence to us or speak to an officer from the LGBTQ+ community.

“Although the suspects have fled the country and the risk to the community is reduced, we are continuing to engage with our partners and those from LGBT independent advisory groups.”

Police said the thieves are believed to have met the victims on Grindr, and then drugged them to make them unconscious.

The four men who have reported being burgled woke to find their belongings missing.

The thefts happened in Brentford and Hounslow in west London, Hampton in south-west London and Bromley in south-east London.

Other potential victims of the thieves or those with information for the police can call 101 quoting Operation Cavendish.

Police give the following advice when meeting someone online: – Tell a friend or relative what arrangements have been made.

– Get the person’s phone number and a live photo or video.

– Use messaging apps rather than social media for extra security.

– Do a reverse image search to check for scams.

Officers also advise getting as much verifiable information from the person as possible; hiding your valuables; and pouring your own drink and keeping it in sight.