Police Uncover Telegram Network Trafficking Intimate Content of Minors
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Israeli police have arrested several suspects, including a 17-year-old, for operating a Telegram network that trafficked intimate content of women and minors. The network allegedly generated hundreds of thousands of shekels by selling access to explicit material. Many victims were unaware their content was being shared. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to extend the detention of key suspects.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Police arrested suspects in a Telegram network trafficking intimate content of women and minors.
- The central suspect, a 17-year-old, allegedly earned tens of thousands of shekels.
- The network distributed explicit photos and videos on Telegram.
- Many victims were unaware their content was being shared and monetized.
- Dozens of buyers are also being questioned for purchasing the illicit material.
Northern District detectives have arrested several suspects in connection with an online network that trafficked intimate material of women and minors, generating hundreds of thousands of shekels. The investigation, initiated by a report to the Lahav 433 hotline 105, focused on the distribution of explicit photos and videos on Telegram over recent months.
Investigators identified a 17-year-old resident of northern Israel as the central suspect. He allegedly managed various Telegram groups where he sold intimate images and videos of women and minors, charging users hundreds of shekels for access. Through this operation, the suspect is believed to have amassed tens of thousands of shekels.
In addition to the main suspect, several associates were arrested for their alleged roles in managing the network. Many victims were reportedly unaware their content was being distributed and used for profit. Following raids on the suspects' homes, dozens of individuals across the country were detained for questioning on suspicion of purchasing the illicit material, allegedly with full knowledge of the minors' ages and the non-consensual distribution of the content.
Authorities plan to seek extensions for the detention of the primary suspects as the investigation continues.
