Eight arrested as police pursue online child abusers

Eight arrested as police pursue online child abusers

Eight people were arrested last month as part of an intensification week targeting online child sexual abuse. 

Throughout the week (14-18 September) 12 warrants were carried out and 19 children safeguarded from harm. 44 devices were triaged to check for illegal material with 10 seized for further examination.  

Of the eight arrested, five have been released on bail as enquiries continue.  

Known as Operation Cyan the week was ran by West Mercia Police’s OCSET (Online Child Sexual Exploitation Team). Much of their work is carried out quietly and unseen, with an utmost focus on safeguarding children and protecting them from harm. 

The team work round the clock to pursue those who cause harm to children, conducting investigations which can be lengthy and complex, to bring offenders to justice through the courts. They utilise specialist capabilities including a digital forensics van which can be brought to any warrant to swiftly triage and deal with evidence on scene, and a dog who can track hidden devices to collate and preserve evidence in the best possible way. 

DCI Gerard Smith said: “We will relentlessly pursue those who harm children. There is a huge amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to identify perpetrators and stop them in their tracks.  

“Operation Cyan brings in to focus the work we are doing all year round to safeguard children. Through enforcement and prevention, we are stopping children from being subjected to horrific online sexual abuse. 

“We all have a part to play in keeping children safe. We would encourage parents and carers to have conversations with their children about staying safe online. These may be difficult conversations to have but they may be vital to keep your children safe. We have a range of resources available to help with this. 

“Make sure you understand the platforms your children are using, and create an environment where children feel comfortable reporting concerns without fear of judgement. Early intervention and open communication remain some of the most effective tools in preventing online exploitation." 

For more information and advice for parents and carers visit: Online child abuse | West Mercia Police 

If you are concerned that a child may be at risk of online exploitation, grooming or abuse, it is important to report concerns as soon as possible. Early reporting enables safeguarding agencies and law enforcement to take prompt action to protect children and investigate offenders. 

Children, parents, carers and professionals can report concerns to the police via 101, or by calling 999 in an emergency where a child is at immediate risk of harm. 

Reports relating to online child sexual abuse material, online grooming and exploitation can also be made to the National Crime Agency's CEOP Safety Centre, which enables children, parents and professionals to obtain advice and report concerns directly. 

Online child sexual abuse content can be reported anonymously through the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), helping to remove illegal material from the internet and safeguard victims. 

Children who have shared intimate images of themselves and are worried about where those images may have been shared can access confidential support through the Report Remove service, operated by the Internet Watch Foundation and Childline. 

Parents and professionals seeking advice and support regarding online safety can also access guidance through Childline, NSPCC, CEOP and UK Safer Internet Centre resources. 

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If something does not feel right, trust your instincts and report your concerns. Please use the following reporting channels- your information could help protect a child from harm. 

Reporting Channels 

For more information and advice: