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In a major international crackdown, authorities have shut down a dark web website linked to the distribution of child sexual abuse material, involving 38 countries, including Cyprus. The operation, which ran from March 10 to 23, 2025, saw more than 1,300 suspects identified and 79 individuals arrested globally. Among those arrested was a 30-year-old man in Cyprus.
The coordinated effort, supported by Europol, aimed to dismantle the illicit network and bring those responsible to justice. The operation, led by the Cybercrime Sub-Division in Cyprus, began after police in another European country alerted local authorities about the website. The tip-off led investigators to the 30-year-old man, who was reportedly a paid member of the dark web platform offering abusive content.
On March 23, police in Cyprus arrested the suspect following a search of his home. Authorities seized multiple electronic devices, including two laptops, three mobile phones, a computer hard drive, and a USB drive, all of which are now undergoing forensic analysis.
Police in Cyprus have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, as they continue to work with international partners to address the growing issue of online child exploitation. The operation highlights the collaborative efforts being made across borders to combat cybercrime and protect vulnerable children worldwide.
