The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has conducted a major operation in Multan, successfully dismantling an international child pornography network operating out of Multan and Muzaffargarh. According to sources, two individuals, including the ringleader, were arrested, and six minor children were rescued. Investigations have revealed that the mastermind of the network is a foreign national.

The accused were producing explicit videos involving children aged between six and eight years and selling them through various websites to clients overseas.  The heinous group reportedly exploited children from underprivileged backgrounds, luring some with money while others were coerced through blackmail.

The criminal activities extended to online platforms such as Telegram and WhatsApp, where training sessions and trading were also carried out. Electronic equipment and hundreds of illicit videos were seized from the arrested suspects, identified as Junaid and Irian. A fully equipped video production studio was also discovered at the crime scene.

The NCCIA has decided to hand over the six rescued children to the Child Protection Department for rehabilitation. Officials estimate that over 50 children may have fallen victim to this vile network. A local court has granted a seven-day remand of the arrested ringleader, Junaid Irfan, for further investigation. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)