Laoag 'sextortionist' arrested

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte — A 39-year-old man, identified as Jhonderk Calaro Ventura, was arrested in an entrapment operation Wednesday after allegedly blackmailing his former partner by threatening to release her private photos and videos online.

Personnel from the Laoag City Police Station, led by P/Capt. Carlo M. Rabago and P/Capt. Sygman C. Benigno under the supervision of P/Lt.Col Andrew P. Rabang, conducted the operation at around 2:43 p.m. at Dericks Travellers in Barangay 1, San Lorenzo, Laoag City.

According to police reports, the victim, a 32-year-old woman from Vintar, Ilocos Norte, filed a complaint after Ventura allegedly pressured her into sexual acts by threatening to post her intimate content on social media.

The victim revealed that Ventura had already sent her private photos and videos to her husband and relatives on 28 March. He then arranged a meeting with the victim at a local eatery before taking her to the lodging house where he was eventually apprehended.

The arrest was recorded using two alternative recording devices as evidence. Authorities are preparing charges against Ventura for violations related to sextortion and cybercrime.