A Nigerian national, Bosun Osagie, has been sentenced to 27 months in prison in the United Kingdom for hacking a woman’s social media accounts, using her photographs to create fake sex-work profiles, and attempting to extort money from her.
Osagie, 25, who lives in Bexley, London, was convicted after pleading guilty to computer hacking and blackmail. In addition to the prison term, he received a 10-year restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victim.
The case began in February 2023 when the woman reported to Merseyside Police that her Snapchat and X accounts had been compromised.
Police investigations uncovered fake online profiles containing her photographs, which were allegedly used to portray her as a sex worker and attract prospective customers. Her images were also offered for sale online without her consent.
The situation escalated when Osagie allegedly used the material to blackmail the woman in an attempt to obtain money from her.
Following investigations into the incident, police arrested Osagie and brought charges against him. He subsequently admitted the offences before receiving his sentence on Monday, October 12.
Commenting on the case, Detective Sergeant Darren Devonport said the offences had subjected the victim to considerable emotional distress.
He condemned Osagie’s actions, noting that the suspect had not only violated the woman’s privacy but had also attempted to profit from the situation through blackmail.
“The victim did the right thing and reported it to us,” Devonport said, adding that Merseyside Police was committed to combating the possession and distribution of indecent images.
He expressed hope that Osagie would use his time in prison to reflect on the consequences of his actions and the harm caused to the victim.
