By Belize Live News Staff: Authorities in Mexico are warning families about the dangers of virtual kidnapping scams after three Belizeans were recently targeted in an elaborate extortion attempt.
The incident unfolded in Chetumal, where criminals attempted to convince the families that their relatives had been abducted by an armed group.
According to investigators, the scammers used cloned messaging accounts and threatening phone calls to pressure family members into paying a ransom.
The suspects reportedly demanded 350,000 pesos, claiming the money was needed to secure the release of the victims.
However, authorities quickly realized the situation was a virtual extortion attempt rather than a real kidnapping.
Police launched a search operation and were able to locate the Belizeans safe and unharmed before any ransom was paid.
Officials are now encouraging the public to remain cautious of suspicious messages or calls claiming relatives have been kidnapped, as similar scams have been reported across the region.
