Investigation into global pedophile network results in 184 arrests

[News_Editor]

Investigation into global pedophile network results in 184 arrests

2011-03-16 20:24:17 GMT+7 (ICT)

THE HAGUE (BNO NEWS) -- Nearly 200 people around the world have been arrested in what is believed to have been the world's largest online pedophile network, authorities said on Wednesday. The investigation spanned more than three years and involved scores of countries.

Europol said during a joint news conference on Wednesday that the investigation centered on the Netherlands-based website boylover.net, which attracted more than 70,000 members. While the website itself was not illegal as a community for pedophiles, its members did exchange child pornography.

So far, at least 184 people have been arrested, including the 37-year-old Dutch founder of the website. As a result, 230 victims have been rescued, including at least 50 in Britain. In addition, Europol said there are 670 additional suspects and warned it "will not rest" until they have been caught.

More details were to be released later on Wednesday.

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