Brazilian Soccer Star Targeted in Extortion Plot Involving Intimate Photos
A chilling extortion plot targeting Botafogo striker Luiz Henrique has unfolded, threatening to expose intimate photos and videos of the rising star unless a hefty sum was paid. Raíssa Cândida da Rocha, a cousin of Henrique’s ex-wife, was apprehended last Friday after attempting to withdraw 20,000 Brazilian Reais (approximately $4,000 USD) from the footballer’s accounts.
The jarring incident occurred while Henrique was preparing to compete in the prestigious Libertadores final.
According to authorities, Rocha confessed to the crime upon arrest, leading to her transfer to protective custody pending legal proceedings. This was not the first time Henrique had faced extortion threats. Earlier this year, in September, he received similar threats, which at the time were denied by Botafogo management and investigated by the Police Station against Kidnapping.
Leaked communications circulating online appear to show a tense back-and-forth between Henrique and Rocha, who allegedly used a cell phone belonging to a family friend of Henrique’s ex-wife. The messages, uncovered by investigators, reveal Henrique’s pleas for more time to make the payment, citing his training schedule as a Factor.
After receiving word of the renewed extortion ordeal, Botafogo management immediately contacted the Civil Police. Henrique’s phone was seized as part of the accelerated investigation.
“Messages from the conversation circulating on social media show the conversation between Luiz Henrique and Raíssa, who used a cell phone that belonged to a family friend of the player’s ex-wife. The striker of the black and white club even answered the messages, justifying the delay in payment by saying that he was training.”
Rocha was subsequently arrested at her residence in Duque de Caxias, facing charges of extortion. The ongoing investigation remains confidential.
This unsettling incident highlights the vulnerability of even high-profile athletes to malicious schemes and the lengths to which individuals will go to extort others.
Luiz Henrique was in danger of revealing intimate photos and videos Credit: Vítor Silva/ BFR
