22 Men Arrested in S’pore for Alleged Online Child Sexual Exploitation Activities

22 men aged between 19 and 52 were arrested for the alleged possession and distribution of child abuse materials.

They were arrested during an islandwide operation targeting online child sexual exploitation activities.

The arrests took place in a four-week raid by Criminal Investigation Department officers at multiple locations:

  • Tampines Street
  • Hougang Street
  • Choa Chu Kang Grove
  • Dakota Crescent
  • Compassvale Walk
  • Pasir Ris Street
  • Bukit Batok East
  • Boon Lay Drive

Electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones and hard disks were seized.

What Were They Suspected of?

These 22 men were suspected of being in possession of obscene material, being in possession of or gaining access to child abuse material, distributing child abuse material and distributing obscene material.

Aside from these men, six other men are also assisting the police in the investigations for obscene material and offences under the Films Act.

What if They are Found Guilty?

Under the Films Act, anyone who possessed any obscene film shall be guilty and will be liable to a conviction to a fine not exceeding S$20,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.

Under the Penal Code, a person can be jailed for up to five years with a fine or caning if they are found guilty of possessing or gaining access to child abuse material and knows or has reason to believe that the material is child abuse material.

Those who are guilty of being the one selling, distributing or offering child abuse materials because it seemed like a great way to make money to them, may be jailed up to seven years

This is also applicable to those who have not yet sold, distributed or offer it but with the intention to do so. Additionally, this is also applicable to those who don’t exactly know if the material is child abuse material but the authorities have the reason to believe the material is child abuse material.

The authorities warn that those that are found engaging in online child sexual exploitation activities, including possession and distribution of child abuse materials will be dealt with sternly in accordance with the law.

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