The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has apprehended 22 Nigerian nationals associated with financially motivated sextortion schemes that have tragically contributed to the suicides of several American victims.
The arrests were made during a pioneering global operation initiated by the FBI to tackle the alarming increase in American suicides attributed to this crime.
The FBI highlighted that this operation was specifically aimed at combating financially motivated sextortion schemes originating from Nigeria.
In a statement, the FBI said: “In coordination with multiple law enforcement partners, the FBI conducted Operation Artemis—a surge of resources and personnel to Nigeria to address the high rate of sextortion related suicides attributed to Nigerian perpetrators.
“As a result of Operation Artemis, FBI investigations led to the arrests of 22 Nigerian subjects connected to financially motivated sextortion schemes. Of those 22 subjects, approximately half were directly linked to victims who took their own lives.”
“This operation marks a significant step in the fight against child exploitation and brings justice and accountability to international perpetrators hiding anonymously behind screens,” the statement continued.
FBI Director Kash Patel remarked that “Operation Artemis exemplifies the FBI’s never-ending mission to protect our most vulnerable, and to pursue the heinous criminals harming our children no matter where they hide.”
He added: “This operation highlights the critical need for international cooperation to address this growing threat, and it’s a fight we can’t take on without our valued partners across the globe. We hope this message encourages parents and guardians to continue to educate their children about online safety and serves as a reminder of the FBI’s relentless pursuit of keeping our children safe.”
**The Sextortion Scam**
Financially motivated sextortion involves predators coercing minors into creating and sharing sexually explicit material, subsequently blackmailing them for money. These scammers frequently target teenage boys by masquerading as attractive girls, manipulating them into sending compromising photos or videos. Once they obtain the material, they demand payment to prevent it from being shared with family and friends.
**Devastating Consequences**
The repercussions of sextortion can be devastating.
According to the Bureau, at least 20 suicides have been linked to financially motivated sextortion since October 2021, with many more victims experiencing emotional trauma and psychological distress.
The agency has reported a 20% increase in sextortion incidents targeting minors over a six-month period.
