Lovers Face New Online Threat As Police Warn Against Recording Intimate Moments
Zimbabwean police have warned lovers against recording intimate moments or exchanging nude images, amid a reported rise in sextortion cases targeting people online. The warning was issued on 31 August 2026 at the Harare Agricultural Show.
Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) spokesperson, said victims can lose money after private photographs or videos are used to blackmail them.
Police Warn Lovers About Sextortion Threat
H-Metro reports that Det-Insp Muteweri said the problem can involve former romantic partners and online scammers.
“We have noted with concern more cases where some love partners have been losing quite a substantive amount of money to their former lovers.”
She said some victims have also suffered serious emotional distress after intimate material was shared publicly.
“Some are committing suicide after their nude photographs and videos are leaked and posted on social media as a punishment for separation.”
Police said sextortion involves threatening to expose sexual content unless a victim meets demands for money, gift cards, more intimate images or sexual favours.
Scammers Also Target Young People Online
Det-Insp Muteweri warned that criminals can use social media information, fake images, hacked devices and recorded livestreams to trap victims.
“A scammer tricks a victim into sending nude photos, records them on a live video stream, or hacks their electronic device.”
She urged victims not to pay or send additional material. Instead, they should preserve screenshots and other evidence before blocking the offender and reporting the matter.
“Avoid sending money or more pictures since this does not stop the blackmailer; it usually leads to more demands.”
Police Advice To Sextortion Victims
Police also urged young victims to speak to trusted adults, school counsellors or law enforcement rather than remaining silent because of fear or embarrassment.
The warning comes as police say sextortion involving children and teenagers is also increasing.
Sextortion Warning As Online Blackmail Concerns Grow
Police say victims can be pressured into silence after private material is obtained. Young people are among those being targeted, with offenders using increasingly varied methods to obtain intimate content.
The authorities are urging victims to report cases rather than giving in to escalating demands.
The post Police Warn Lovers To Stop Recording Themselves As Sextortion Cases Rise appeared first on iHarare News.
