The Civil Guard arrests 7 people in an operation against sextortion

Operation against sextortion in Ciudad Real

The Civil Guard has carried out a significant operation in the province of Ciudad Real, where seven people have been arrested and fourteen more are being investigated for their involvement in a case of extortion known as sextortion.

This criminal group contacted its victims through dating websites, obtaining personal data to threaten them with making those details public or sending hitmen if they did not comply with their financial demands.

Details of the modus operandi

The operation, named "Exman", began after receiving various complaints indicating a similar criminal pattern in multiple locations in Ciudad Real. Victims were approached through fake ads, generally offering sexual services.

Once communication was established through messaging apps, the group managed to collect data such as the name, phone number, and address of the individuals, which they then used to extort them under threats.

The intimidations included calling hitmen to show up at the victims' homes and harm them or their family members. This tactic was effective, as they reported earnings exceeding 126,000 euros.

The money was withdrawn in cash at ATMs in various provinces, including Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona, and Madrid, through intermediaries known as “money mules.”

Some of the accused already had a history of similar criminal cases. The investigation has been conducted by the Equipo@, belonging to the Organic Unit of Judicial Police of Ciudad Real, which continues to work on the case and does not rule out further arrests.

For more information, interested parties can contact the communication office of the Command of Ciudad Real at the phone number 926 22 11 80, extension 0220104.