FOOTAGE has shown the moments men were arrested over suspected sexual abuse of children online.
In the bodycam footage, released by West Mercia Police, one suspect can be heard telling officers “this can’t be happening”.
Another clip shows an occupant in the home of another suspect saying “not this again” as police explain why they are there.
The officer then explains to the suspect, who is in bed, that they are being arrested on suspicion of sexual communication with a child.
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Police ‘intensification week’
West Mercia Police said all eight arrests were made from September 14 to September 18 as part of an “intensification week” targeting online child sexual abuse, which has been dubbed Operation Cyan.
During the four days, they carried out 12 warrants, triaged 44 devices to check for illegal material and seized 10 devices for further examination.
As a result, the force said that 19 children had been safeguarded from harm.
It did not specify where the arrests had taken place.
The operation was run by West Mercia Police’s Online Sexual Exploitation Team, who use specialist resources including a digital forensics van and a dog.
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‘A growing and emerging problem’
In a video shared by the force, DCI Gerard Smith said sexual abuse and exploitation of children online was “a growing and emerging problem”, citing the increased number of platforms as a possible reason for this.
He has also urged parents and carers to have conversations around staying safe online.
“We will relentlessly pursue those who harm children,” DCI Smith said.
“There is a huge amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to identify perpetrators and stop them in their tracks.
“Operation Cyan brings in to focus the work we are doing all year round to safeguard children.
“Through enforcement and prevention, we are stopping children from being subjected to horrific online sexual abuse.
“We all have a part to play in keeping children safe. We would encourage parents and carers to have conversations with their children about staying safe online.
“These may be difficult conversations to have but they may be vital to keep your children safe. We have a range of resources available to help with this.
“Make sure you understand the platforms your children are using, and create an environment where children feel comfortable reporting concerns without fear of judgement.
“Early intervention and open communication remain some of the most effective tools in preventing online exploitation.”