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Three New Zealand men have been arrested and convicted after an investigation into child abuse material on the Internet across at least 10 countries, the New Zealand Police said Tuesday.
The operation to identify individuals involved in the online distribution of child abuse material was launched in July 2014 and coordinated by a specialist New Zealand police unit working as part of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation-led Violent Crimes Against Children International Taskforce (VCACITF).
"The three New Zealanders arrested were among 48 individuals identified and arrested worldwide as part of this operation," Detective Senior Sergeant John Michael said in a statement.
"So far, 31 children have been rescued from abusive situations. Four children in New Zealand have been safeguarded from potential abuse," he said.
"Investigations were continuing and more than 100 investigative leads had so far been disseminated to countries involved," he added.
The investigation also involved law enforcement agencies from the United States, Australia, Spain, Poland, Greece, France, Canada, Romania and the United Kingdom.
"The results of this operation highlight the significant level of coordination and cooperation taking place worldwide to bring to justice those that would exploit children," said Michael.
The VCACITF was established in 2004 and comprises 67 investigators from 44 countries who coordinate complex multinational investigations.
"The trade in child abuse images is a serious criminal offense that victimizes and revictimizes our most vulnerable members of society," said Michael.
