SINGAPORE – In a significant operation targeting online child sexual exploitation, law enforcement agencies across Asia arrested 435 individuals, including 21 in Singapore, between February 26 and March 29, 2025. This coordinated effort involved police forces from Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand, aiming to dismantle networks engaged in the possession, distribution, and sale of child abuse materials.
In Singapore, the operation led to the apprehension of 21 men, aged between 22 and 61, suspected of offenses such as possessing, distributing, and accessing child abuse materials, as well as sexual communication with minors. Authorities conducted raids at multiple locations, seizing electronic devices including computers, mobile phones, and storage devices. Some of the individuals have been referred to the Home Team Community Assistance and Referral Scheme (HT CARES) for further assessment and intervention.
The Hong Kong Police Force reported the arrest of 13 men, with officers seizing 972 pornographic videos and photos featuring children. Similarly, the Korean National Police Agency apprehended suspects involved in comparable offenses. These coordinated actions underscore the commitment of regional law enforcement to address the proliferation of child abuse materials facilitated by technological advancements.
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Assistant Commissioner Yeo Yee Chuan, Deputy Director of Singapore’s Criminal Investigation Department, emphasized the gravity of such crimes, stating, “Crimes against children cannot be condoned. The proliferation of the internet, as well as the rapid development of other technology, has enabled the fast, widespread, and anonymous distribution of child abuse materials worldwide.” He highlighted the importance of continued, coordinated enforcement actions against online child sexual exploitation activities.
This operation marks Singapore’s largest crackdown on child pornography and its first cross-border initiative against such crimes. The collaborative efforts of the involved countries demonstrate a unified stance against online child sexual exploitation, aiming to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to taking tough enforcement action against online child sexual exploitation activities. Individuals found engaging in such activities will face stern legal consequences, including imprisonment and fines, in accordance with the law.
The success of this operation highlights the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating online child sexual exploitation and sets a precedent for future collaborative efforts to tackle such transnational crimes.
