Police arrested a woman Tuesday in this northern Colombian city after she allegedly used social media and dating apps to trick men into sending intimate photos and videos, then extorted them by threatening to send the material to their wives and families.
Marelbis Lozano, known by the alias “Chucha Grande,” was captured in flagrante delicto in the La Manga neighborhood in southwestern Barranquilla, authorities said. The Metropolitan Police of Barranquilla carried out the arrest during an operation after a victim reported the scheme and provided evidence.
I see why it worked so well pic.twitter.com/HlAaJNR7Iq
— Nandi 🤍💜🤍 (@pallnandi) March 2, 2026
According to police and the Fiscalía General de la Nación, Lozano contacted victims through social networks and messaging applications, often using fake accounts. She initiated flirtatious conversations, built trust and arranged encounters, then obtained explicit photos or videos — sometimes during in-person meetings. She later demanded money transfers, threatening to distribute the material if they refused.
One reported threat sent to victims read: “Si no me manda la plata, le enseño las fotos a su mujer” — “If you don’t send me the money, I’ll show the photos to your wife,” authorities said.
At least 10 men have been identified as victims, though officials said the number could be higher and urged anyone else targeted to come forward. The woman was turned over to prosecutors to face extortion charges under Colombian law.
Neighbors in the area described Lozano as known for her extroverted personality, according to local reports. Police emphasized that the case highlights a growing problem of digital extortion and advised the public not to share intimate content with strangers online.
The Fiscalía is handling the investigation. Officials encouraged reporting similar cases through the free Gaula hotline at 165, available 24 hours a day.
No additional details about Lozano’s age or prior record were released.
Flip the pages for photos of Chucha Grande
