An investigation into alleged international sextortionist Ifeel Simango is shedding light on the reported scale of a case involving alleged victims in several countries.
The 30-year-old Soweto resident is accused of using social media platforms and fake profiles to target boys under the age of 18.
Investigators have so far identified 52 alleged victims worldwide, including at least two South Africans.
The investigation was launched following the suicide of a 17-year-old Swiss boy who was allegedly manipulated into sharing sensitive personal information with an individual using a fraudulent WhatsApp profile.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the alleged operation and are working to determine whether additional victims may have been targeted but have not yet come forward.
Simango faces 52 charges, including murder, fraud, extortion, money laundering and the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The international scope of the case could also require cooperation between South African authorities and law enforcement agencies in other countries, including Switzerland.
It remains unclear whether Swiss authorities will seek Simango’s extradition.
Simango remains in custody, while his bail application has been postponed to 17 September.
The State says it needs time to verify information contained in the bail application before presenting its arguments.
Investigators are continuing to establish the full extent of the alleged sextortion operation and whether further arrests or charges could follow.