Agents of the National Police, in coordination with the authorities of Sweden, the Netherlands, and Europol, have arrested a Swedish citizen in Tenerife, investigated since 2021, for the mass distribution of child sexual abuse material through forums located on the deep internet, in the Dark Web.
The arrest occurred after the agents identified an increase in his activity, including the production of material. Specifically, by early 2025, he had distributed over 50 files of extreme severity, which constituted a priority in the investigation, as reported by the National Police this Tuesday.
International collaboration allowed for linking his virtual identity on the Dark Web with data associated with an application, and based on the suspicion that he resided in Spain, a localisation effort concluded with his arrest in Tenerife, alongside an authorised judicial search.
At the time of his arrest, he was requesting and sharing illicit material when he was caught upon the agents’ entry.
The detainee used hidden TOR forums and various messaging applications, engaging in conversations with minors to solicit sexual content. A portable computer, two mobile phones, and two USB drives, all containing a large amount of criminal material, were seized from his home. Additionally, his partner was arrested due to their knowledge and involvement.
Forensic analysis revealed accounts on portals with Russian domains, international environments with little moderation for child abuse networks, and the use of coded terminology. Spaces linked to the MAP (Minor-Attracted Persons) movement, which aims to normalise paedophilia and legitimise criminal behaviours through social discourse and specific symbolism, were also identified.
This individual had a history in Sweden and Spain for similar offences, including the distribution of child material and abuse of a minor; while his partner has a record for drug trafficking, and has also been put under investigation for their alleged involvement.
The National Police emphasises its commitment to protecting children and pursuing online child sexual abuse, acting with the utmost diligence, noting that this operation exemplifies effective police coordination in the fight against organised child crime.
They also remind citizens that they can collaborate, anonymously if they wish, if they have knowledge, indications, or suspicions of criminal activities, through the website www.policía.es in the Contact section, providing information that will be handled confidentially by National Police specialists.
