The blackmailing began two years ago, when several suspects demanded tens of thousands of shekels from the victim on several occasions, threatening to release explicit photos if the money wasn't paid.
Police investigators followed up a complaint made a few weeks ago, and launched a covert investigation that resulted in the arrests of three suspects, aged 29, 32 and 45, from Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim. They are suspected of blackmail and money laundering. Their remand has been extended several times.
A court hearing at Jerusalem District Court on Sunday partially lifted a gag order on the case allowing the publication of some details, although the victim's identity remains withheld.