NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania — Mauritanian authorities have detained six people in connection with an investigation into an alleged online extortion network, government spokesperson El Houssein Ould Meddou said during a press conference on September 30.

According to the government, the investigation concerns an allegedly organized network accused of conducting blackmail and extortion campaigns through social media. Authorities say the investigation is also examining activities involving individuals connected to Mauritanian bloggers living abroad.

The arrests reportedly began on September 28, with authorities saying further investigations are underway to establish the identities and roles of people allegedly involved.

The government spokesperson said those found to have participated in the alleged activities would face the procedures provided for under Mauritanian law.

However, some bloggers based outside Mauritania have rejected the accusations, with some claiming that measures against relatives were intended to pressure them because of criticism of the authorities. These claims remain disputed and have not been independently established.

The investigation has brought renewed attention to online fraud, social-media activity and digital-related criminal investigations in Mauritania.