JOHANNESBURG - The investigation into alleged international sextortionist Ifeel Simango is revealing the scale of a case that stretches beyond South Africa.
The 30-year-old Soweto resident is accused of using social media and fraudulent profiles to target underage boys.
Investigators have so far identified 52 alleged victims around the world, all boys under the age of 18.
At least two of those victims are South African.
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The investigation was triggered by the suicide of a 17-year-old Swiss boy who was allegedly manipulated into sharing sensitive personal information with someone using a fraudulent WhatsApp profile.
Authorities are now working to establish the full extent of the alleged operation and whether there are more potential victims who have not yet come forward.
Simango faces 52 criminal charges, including murder, fraud, extortion, money laundering and the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
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The international nature of the investigation also raises questions about possible cooperation with authorities in other countries, including Switzerland.
It remains unclear whether Swiss authorities will seek Simango’s extradition.
For now, Simango remains in custody, with his bail application postponed to 17 September.
The State says it needs an opportunity to verify information contained in the bail application before making its submissions.
As the legal process continues, investigators are still working to determine the full scope of the alleged sextortion network and whether anyone else could face charges.