Over 100 premises in total have been searched this year.
Gardaí have revealed that Operation Ketch III is the third phase of an intelligence-led operation to target those living in the community who possess, import and distribute Child Abuse Material (Child Pornography) on the internet.
The key aims of Operation Ketch III are:
- Identify child protection concerns at each premises searched and engage appropriately with Tusla and the Child & Family Agency
- Target persons suspected of possessing, importing and distributing online child abuse material (child-related pornography)
As part of the searches, Garda raided the home of an individual who was suspected of selling and facilitating the online distribution of child sex dolls.
The person was arrested and detained, but has since been released pending a file being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
As part of phase three, searches were carried out in 12 counties across the country with more expected in the future.
In February, 38 premises were searched in the course of the first phase of Operation Ketch. In July, in the course of the second phase, an additional 35 premises were searched.
Assistant Commissioner John O’Driscoll stated: “The Garda Síochána places great importance on undertaking proactive initiatives that target those who use the Internet to exploit children online and who are involved in the downloading of child abuse material.”
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