Cancún police stop virtual kidnapping scam in bold rescue

Cancún, Mexico — A swift police mobilization prevented a virtual kidnapping and extortion attempt in Cancún on Tuesday afternoon. According to the Secretary of Citizen Security, the intervention of the Centurion Group ensured that a family did not fall victim to a fraudulent phone extortion scheme involving a simulated kidnapping.

Family Targeted by Fake Kidnapping Scam

The incident began Tuesday morning when police officers conducting preventive patrols received a report of a possible illegal deprivation of liberty. Upon arriving at the State Attorney General’s Office, authorities encountered the father of a minor who had received an extortion call demanding 500,000 pesos in exchange for his daughter’s release.

Meanwhile, another police team initiated a search for the teenager across different areas of the city. Fortunately, minutes later, the mother received a call from a relative confirming that the girl had returned home unharmed, confirming the incident as a simulated kidnapping.

Victim Recalls Deceptive Scheme

The young victim, identified by her initials M.G.H. de la C., recounted that an individual calling himself "Eduardo" contacted her by phone, requesting her assistance in apprehending alleged cellphone hackers. He instructed her to go alone to Plaza Héroes and not inform anyone. After waiting for some time, the man told her she could leave.

Since the family did not transfer any money, the extortion attempt was unsuccessful. Authorities provided guidance to prevent similar situations and reminded the public to report any suspicious activity to the Anonymous Tip Line at 089.

Authorities Warn Against Fraudulent Tactics

The Secretary of Citizen Security urged residents not to fall for such scams, emphasizing that criminals exploit fear and misinformation to extort money through false threats.

The case remains under investigation as authorities work to identify and apprehend the suspect involved in the fraudulent scheme.