LAGOS, NIGERIA — In a sweeping international crackdown, Nigerian authorities, in collaboration with global law enforcement, have dismantled a notorious sextortion ring linked to the tragic suicide of a 16-year-old Australian boy.
Key Takeaways:
- 22 Nigerian men arrested in global sextortion crackdown.
- Operation Artemis links suspects to 2023 suicide of 16-year-old Australian boy.
- Thousands of teens worldwide targeted; over 20 U.S. teen suicides connected.
- International collaboration between AFP, FBI, RCMP, and Nigeria’s EFCC.
- Authorities urge vigilance as sextortion remains a global threat.
The Full Story
In a significant breakthrough, international law enforcement agencies have dismantled a global sextortion ring operating out of Nigeria, leading to the arrest of 22 individuals. The operation, dubbed “Operation Artemis,” was a collaborative effort involving the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the FBI, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The network coerced teenagers worldwide into sharing explicit images, subsequently blackmailing them with threats of public exposure unless ransoms were paid. Tragically, the operation has been linked to the 2023 suicide of a 16-year-old boy in New South Wales, Australia. Two of the arrested suspects were directly connected to this case. Furthermore, over 20 teen suicides in the U.S. since 2021 have been associated with this sextortion ring.
The AFP’s Acting Commander Ben Moses emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating such crimes, stating, “This operation demonstrates our commitment to protecting vulnerable members of our community and bringing offenders to justice.”
Authorities continue to urge parents, educators, and young people to remain vigilant online and report any suspicious activities.
A Nigerian #Sextortion ring allegedly linked to the death of an Aussie teenager has been smashed by federal and international police, with 22 men arrested#Policing #ChildSafetyhttps://t.co/1ZcGUXRyBt
— Rarely Wright (@2Rarely) June 2, 2025
The dismantling of this sextortion ring underscores the pervasive nature of cybercrimes and the importance of global collaboration in addressing them. While this operation marks a significant victory, the fight against online exploitation continues. Communities worldwide must remain alert and proactive in safeguarding their members, especially the youth.
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Source: News.com.au
