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How global efforts led to the arrest of two Nigerians after an Australian teen’s suicide
Sextortion can involve extorting sexual or other favours via the Internet, for example extorting money from a victim using a webcam - and it is one of the biggest dangers for young people on the Internet.
Two persons who were detained in Nigeria are shown in the blurry photo issued by Australian police. Photo Credit: NSW
Following the tragic suicide of an Australian schoolboy, there has been an alarming spike in sextortion instances, particularly targeting young people.
This is highlighted by the recent arrest of two men in Nigeria.
The teenage victim exchanged obscene photographs online before receiving threats and demands for money, according to Australian officials.
This disturbing sextortion trend sparked an international investigation that resulted in the culprits being apprehended in Nigeria.
Although the victim’s identity is kept secret to save his family’s privacy, it is clear that effect of sextortion knows no boundaries. The accused, who were described as young men, allegedly threatened to show the victim’s acquaintances incriminating images unless they were paid A$500.
Investigators collaborate internationally
According to the authorities, the distressing communications that the victim received emphasised the coercive methods that the perpetrators used, which finally led to the boy’s tragic suicide late last year.
The suspects were located in a densely populated area of Nigeria, and the cooperation of Australian detectives with their counterparts in South Africa and Nigeria proved to be critical in their capture.
Moreover, data found on their phones raised the possibility that the suspects may have targeted other people. They have been charged for the purported extortion, but they have not been made to answer for the boy’s passing.
Sextortion is a serious danger
With similar occurrences reported in Canada and the US in recent years, this case also proves the seriousness of sextortion and its catastrophic effects.
“The messages are horrific. They’re aggressive and put a lot of pressure on the boy to pay the money,” Australia’s police force’s cyber-crime commander, Matthew Craft was quoted by the BBC.
Detective Superintendent Matthew Craft also assured victims that law enforcement is dedicated to pursuing justice and safeguarding the community, stressing the pressing need for victims to come forward and report such crimes.
“We want young people to continue to report these cases, and to never be embarrassed to talk to police,” Craft said.
