A GRAVE case involving the alleged sexual extortion of teenage boys and young men has led to the extradition of two Nigerian individuals to the United States. The charges paint a disturbing picture of an international sextortion ring, with one victim’s tragic death connected to the accused actions, The Associated Press (AP) reported. Samuel Ogoshi, 22, and Samson Ogoshi, 20, hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, are set to be arraigned on Monday at the federal courthouse in Grand Rapids, according to US Attorney Mark Totten.
The indictment accuses the two men of perpetrating a disturbing scheme by masquerading as a woman online, targeting unsuspecting victims. The alleged actions resulted in a harrowing incident where 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Marquette, in the Upper Peninsula, tragically ended his own life by self-inflicted gunshot on March 25, 2022.
Samuel Ogoshi and Samson Ogoshi each face a series of charges, including conspiracy to sexually exploit minors, conspiracy to distribute child pornography, and conspiracy to commit stalking through the internet. Samuel Ogoshi faces additional charges, including sexual exploitation of a minor resulting in death and attempted sexual exploitation of a minor resulting in death. The indictment against the two men was issued in May.
Sextortion, a form of online blackmail, involves coercing victims into sharing explicit images and subsequently threatening to publicly release the material unless they comply with monetary demands or engage in sexual acts.
US Attorney Mark Totten addressed the severity of these crimes, stating, ‘Sextortion is a horrible crime. To those who commit these crimes: we will pursue you around the world. And to those who are victims: please know we stand ready to help you,’ AP quoted him as saying.
While the exact number of victims remains undisclosed, the gravity of the situation has prompted a worldwide effort to bring those responsible to justice.
Amidst the unfolding legal proceedings, it is unclear whether the Ogoshi individuals are related. Furthermore, online court records in the case do not reveal any legal representation for the Ogoshis who could potentially provide insight into the allegations brought against them.
This case underscores the pressing need to combat the rising instances of sextortion, especially involving vulnerable individuals. As the proceedings progress, authorities are dedicated to holding the accused accountable for their alleged actions while offering support to victims impacted by their malicious acts.