The Lagos Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) has apprehended three suspects—two males and one female—allegedly involved in a sophisticated cyber blackmail and extortion ring. The arrests followed a formal petition from a victim who was being threatened with the release of her private photographs.
The Extortion Scheme
According to a statement released on Friday by PSFU spokesperson DSP Ovie Ewhubare, the victim had been subjected to repeated threats via phone calls. The suspects claimed they would leak her nude photographs to the public unless she met their financial demands.
Driven by fear and emotional distress, the victim initially transferred several tranches of money to the suspects. However, the situation escalated when the group demanded an additional N10 million, prompting her to seek police intervention.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Upon receiving the petition, the Commissioner of Police, PSFU, Mr. Kayode Ojapinwa, ordered an immediate investigation. Specialized operatives were deployed, leading to the successful apprehension of the three individuals.
Key Findings from the Investigation:
- Unlawful Access: One of the suspects gained unauthorized access to the victim’s mobile device and surreptitiously transferred her private photographs to his own phone.
- Conspiracy: The primary suspect allegedly conspired with the other two arrested individuals and additional accomplices, who remain at large, to coordinate the extortion.
- Payment Tranches: The suspects had successfully received multiple payments from the victim before the final demand for N10 million.
Official Stance
The PSFU has reiterated its commitment to tackling cyber-related crimes and protecting citizens from digital exploitation. DSP Ewhubare noted that efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining accomplices linked to the ring.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be charged in court following the conclusion of the comprehensive investigation.
Source: PSFU
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