- Ads posing as women were posted on contact websites to obtain user information for extortion purposes.
- Two individuals have been investigated as alleged perpetrators of extortion, money laundering, and membership in a criminal group.
- So far, 13 victims have been identified in Murcia, Alicante, Albacete, Zaragoza, Guipúzcoa, Málaga, Girona, and Pontevedra.
Murcia, April 1, 2025 – The Civil Guard of the Region of Murcia, as part of Operation ‘Licey,’ has uncovered a criminal network specializing in sextortion. This has led to an investigation into two individuals suspected of extortion, money laundering, and involvement in a criminal group.
Investigation Initiated After Threatening Messages
The investigation began in July 2024 when a man in Mazarrón reported receiving multiple threatening messages and calls from an individual claiming to be a hitman and brothel operator.
The victim had accessed a contact website where escort services were advertised. Shortly after, he began receiving threats that his activities on the website would be publicly exposed. Under pressure, the extortionists managed to obtain €3,000 from him.
The Civil Guard traced the money, which initially passed through various bank accounts operated by ‘money mules’ before identifying the final recipient.
Identifying the Suspects
After months of investigation, the Civil Guard identified two men residing in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, who are now being investigated for extortion, money laundering, and belonging to a criminal organization.
Investigators discovered that the scheme involved publishing deceptive ads featuring women on contact websites. Once they obtained users’ phone numbers, they threatened to expose their use of such platforms to their social circles.
Widespread Victimization Across Multiple Regions
So far, 13 victims have been identified across Murcia, Alicante, Albacete, Zaragoza, Guipúzcoa, Málaga, Girona, and Pontevedra.
Operation ‘Licey’ remains ongoing, and authorities do not rule out further arrests or the discovery of additional victims.
