Gardaí have carried out searches at 23 addresses across 11 counties as part of an ongoing operation targeting the possession and distribution of child abuse images and videos.
The searches were carried out as part of the fifth phase of Operation Ketch - which targets people involved in the possession or distribution of child exploitation material.
The searches took place between February 1st and 4th in:
- Dublin, 6
- Monaghan, 2
- Cork, 6
- Clare, 1
- Carlow, 1
- Donegal, 2
- Cavan, 1
- Meath, 1
- Louth, 1
- Limerick, 1
- Kerry, 1
Gardaí said "digital material" has been seized for forensic examination at all addresses searched and follow-up searches are expected over the coming days.
Arrests are expected as the individual investigations progress.
A total of 137 addresses were searched during the first four phases of Operation Ketch in 2018.
Gardaí said they will "relentlessly pursue those involved in the sexual exploitation of children, including those who possess, import and distribute child abuse material."
Safer Internet Day
Gardaí launched the fifth phase of the operation to coincide with Safer Internet Day 2019.
Members of the Gardaí are working with schools around the country to promote the ‘Be in Ctrl’ Schools Programme which aims to inform students of the risk of online exploitation, raise awareness regarding safe online behaviour and empower young people to seek help and report incidents to the Gardaí.
The programme deals with 'sextortion' - a form of digital blackmail where sexual information or images are used to extort sexual material, sexual favours and/or money from children.
It includes a ten-minute video which gives advice on how to protect themselves and tell them where they may find help and support.
Gardaí have offered this advice for protecting yourself online.
- Protect your online life - use the maximum privacy settings.
- Be aware that people online may not be who they claim to be.
- Keep control online - do not share explicit or intimate images with anyone.
Anyone who believe they are a victim of this type of crime should do the following
- Don’t share more, don’t pay anything.
- Look for help. You are not alone.
- Preserve evidence. Don’t delete anything.
- Stop the communication. Block the person.
- Report it to An Garda Síochána.
