US: FBI arrests 22 Nigerians over sextortion scandal

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, has arrested 22 Nigerians linked to a sextortion network targeting teenage boys.

The arrests followed an extensive investigation spanning nearly two years.

FBI confirmed this arrest in a statement published on its website, on Thursday April 24, 2025.

The agency said the sextortion schemes contributed to the suicides of over 20 teenage boys in the United States since 2021.

The operation, code-named Operation Artemis, involved law enforcement from Nigeria, the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

The suspects allegedly posed as young women on social media platforms to lure unsuspecting victims.

According to the FBI, the perpetrators tricked the teenage boys into sharing sexually explicit images.

Once they obtained the images, the suspects allegedly threatened to expose the victims publicly if they refused to pay money.

The FBI explained that even after victims paid, the threats often continued.

In several tragic cases, continued harassment pushed victims into depression and suicide.

Special Agent Karen R., who coordinated the Bureau’s involvement in the operation, condemned the criminal acts.

“This is not a victimless crime. These are real children suffering real consequences,” she said.

The FBI stressed that sextortion remains a growing threat in the digital world, especially among vulnerable teenagers.

Operation Artemis was launched to combat the rising number of online sextortion cases affecting American youths.

Officials revealed that arrests were made in different locations, although details about specific locations were withheld.

The FBI praised the collaboration with international partners, describing it as critical to the success of the operation.

Authorities are now working to extradite some of the arrested individuals to face charges in the United States.

If convicted, the suspects could face lengthy prison sentences under American law.

The FBI urged parents and guardians to be vigilant and talk to their children about online safety.

The agency also advised teenagers to report any suspicious online interactions immediately to trusted adults or law enforcement.

Meanwhile, advocacy groups have called for stronger education on internet safety to prevent such crimes.

They urged governments worldwide to prioritize cybersecurity education in schools.

The FBI reassured the public that it would continue pursuing individuals engaged in sextortion and cyber exploitation.

The agency vowed that no effort would be spared in protecting young people from online predators.

Investigations are still ongoing, and more arrests are expected in the coming weeks.

The FBI said more information would be released as cases progress through legal processes.

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