Cozumel girls targeted in virtual extortion schemes

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Two recent cases of virtual extortion on the island of Cozumel have raised alarms among authorities and families, exposing how criminals operate anonymously through phone calls to manipulate minors, instill fear, and isolate them from their surroundings. Both incidents were swiftly addressed by officers from the Secretary of Citizen Security (SSC) and triggered victim protection protocols.

"Destroy Your SIM Card and Go Alone": The Deception That Led a Minor to a Supermarket

A teenage girl was found inside the restrooms of a Chedraui supermarket on Félix González Canto Street and Transversal Avenue. The minor was in a state of nervous crisis after receiving multiple calls from an unknown number, in which the extortionists identified themselves as members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

Using threats against her family, they demanded she destroy her phone’s SIM card, purchase a new one, and leave her home. Fearing for her safety, the girl complied and chose the supermarket as a hiding place. The criminals also demanded intimate photos, intensifying her distress. Inside the restroom, on the verge of collapse, she broke down in tears, prompting store employees to alert authorities.

Personnel from the Specialized Group for Attention to Family and Gender Violence (GEAVIG), along with officers from the State Attorney General’s Office and paramedics from CostaMed Unit #01, arrived at the scene to provide immediate assistance. The girl was diagnosed with severe nervous shock and later reunited with her family, where she was embraced by her parents and older brother.

Another Student, Another Call: Threats Reach a School

At the Colegio de Bachilleres in Cozumel, a 17-year-old student was targeted in a similar extortion attempt. During class, she received three calls from an individual also claiming to be a CJNG member. The message was clear: leave the school immediately because "we are coming for you."

Unlike the first victim, the teenager did not comply. Instead, she reported the situation to the school’s vice principal, who activated internal protocols and called 911. The rapid response from emergency personnel prevented further escalation. Municipal police, GEAVIG officers, paramedics, and later staff from the municipal DIF (Family Development Agency) arrived to provide emotional support and guidance.

Cozumel Is Not Immune to Digital Crime

Both cases, occurring within a short timeframe, reveal a pattern: anonymous calls, death threats, psychological manipulation, and forced isolation of minors. Although no physical contact or presence of criminals was confirmed, the emotional toll was severe.

Authorities reiterated warnings to parents, teachers, and students to remain vigilant against such crimes, report suspicious calls, and never follow instructions from strangers—no matter how credible or intimidating they may seem.

The quick actions of the SSC, GEAVIG, educational institutions, and medical services were crucial in preventing more serious outcomes. Both minors are now under the protection of their families.