During the past five months, two cases of extortion of a sexual nature have been reported to the Edenvale Police Station.
Edenvale SAPS spokesperson, Capt Jean Olckers, said in both instances men had sent photographs of their naked bodies to women via social media.
“Police believe there is a syndicate with members posing as women on social media to attract and lure victims,” said Olckers.
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“Once the victim sends their photographs they are told to pay money in order to keep the images private.”
Olckers said if the victim did not pay the money, the extortionist threatened to share the images publicly.
He urged community members not to send private photographs using social media, or to strangers.
Although only two cases have been reported, Olckers believes other community members have been sexually extorted.
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“It is a crime of such personal nature that people might not want to report it.”
Olckers has urged community members to report all crimes, and any suspicious activity.
To report a crime phone 10111, 0860010111 or 071 675 6841/2/3/4.
