Calgary police are warning the public about a man accused of using fake identities on online dating apps to lure and sexually assault women.
Investigators say the suspect, identified as 43-year-old Ali Kiani, of Calgary, has frequented multiple dating platforms under false names.
The warning comes after an alleged assault in February 2024, when a woman met a man named "Alex" on a dating app.
After exchanging messages, the two met at a local coffee shop. The following day, Alex asked to visit the victim's home, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her.
The suspect then deleted his dating profile and blocked access to his cellphone subscriber information. The victim immediately reported the incident to police.
The Calgary Police Service’s Sexual Assault Investigative Unit launched an investigation and determined that "Alex" had used a fake identity.
Police say Kiani has used multiple aliases and dating app profiles to meet victims.
Kiani is described as approximately 6-ft., 195 pounds, with a medium build.
Police say the public warning was issued after careful deliberation, balancing privacy concerns with the need to protect potential victims. Authorities urge the public to take precautions but warn against any form of vigilante action.
“I want to thank the victim for coming forward to report this sexual assault,” said Staff Sgt. Tom Hanson.
“After an extensive investigation, we were able to identify the man responsible and hopefully prevent him from victimizing others who he has come in contact with via online dating apps.”
Police encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual assault to report it, regardless of when it occurred. Anyone with information about Kiani or similar incidents is asked to call Calgary police at 403-266-1234 or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.calgarycrimestoppers.org.
