Roughly a week after reports emerged of a disturbing child abuse network in Muzaffargarh, Pakistani officials have now revealed how the ring was dismantled. Speaking at a press briefing in Islamabad, the National Cybercrime Investigation Authority (NCCIA) Director General and the Minister of State for Interior shared fresh details about the operation.
Officials said the gang had been producing and selling child abuse content through the dark web. The network came to light after the Special Branch tipped off the NCCIA, prompting swift action in a remote village in southern Punjab.
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According to investigators, the group was led by a German national who visited Pakistan for about three weeks. During his stay, he reportedly set up a professional studio, trained local collaborators, and later returned abroad, continuing to run operations remotely.
Five Pakistani suspects were arrested during the raid, while efforts to apprehend the foreign ringleader are underway through Interpol and the Foreign Office.
Authorities said nearly 50 children, aged between six and 10, were exploited, with some parents suspected of assisting the gang. Six minors were rescued and are now under the care of the Child Protection Department.
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Officials recovered over 800 graphic videos from the studio. Each video was sold for $100 to $500, depending on content, with all footage allegedly sent to the foreign suspect.
The NCCIA conducted a targeted raid after surveillance confirmed the activities. Equipment and digital evidence were seized, and investigations are ongoing.