Face2News/New Delhi

Cenntral Bureau of Investigation (CBI), on the basis of inputs received from USA launched operation Hawk and has taken swift action to successfully dismantle the cybercrime networks involving online child sexual exploitation with international linkages.

International Operations Division of CBI registered a case against Sheik Muizz Ahmed under section 506 of Indian Penal Code as well as section 66D of Information Technology Act, 2000 and section 12 read with section 11 of POCSO Act, 2012 and launched investigation. 

During March, 2024, accused Sheikh Muizz Ahmed, resident of Mangalore operated through social media platform “Discord” under the username “heisenberg7343” and engaged in online chats with a minor girl from USA. During chats, the accused induced the minor girl to engage in sexualized chats with him and he further induced/enticed her to share her obscene images/videos with him over the said platform. The accused also intimidated the minor victim to engage in obscene sexual activities online.

Following registration of the case, CBI conducted extensive searches at various locations in Mumbai and Mangalore linked to the accused leading to recovery of electronic devices viz mobile phone and laptop which contained CSAM obtained by the accused from the minor girl victim by way of inducement. Accused Shiekh Muizz Ahmed was arrested by CBI and sent to judicial cutody.

 International Operations Division of CBI registered another case against Mukul Saini under section 506 of Indian Penal Code as well as section 67 of Information Technology Act, 2000 and section 12 read with sections 11 and 15 of POCSO Act, 2012 and launched investigation.

During the period 2023-2024, accused Mukul Saini, resident of Delhi operated through social media platform “Discord” vide IDs “Izumi#9412”, “Izumi#7070”, “Deadddd#6873” and “Arisu” and engaged in online chats with a minor girl from USA. During chats, the accused induced the minor girl to engage in sexualized chats with him and share her obscene images/videos with him over the said platform. Accused also intimidated the minor victim to continue sharing her obscene images/videos, otherwise he will make her obscene images/videos viral on the internet.

Following registration of the case, CBI conducted extensive searches at various locations in Delhi linked to the accused leading to recovery of electronic devices viz mobile phones and computer hard disk containing incriminating digital evidence relating to the case. 

CBI is committed to combat menace of Online Child Sexual Exploitation and ensure protection of children globally.

Earlier, CBI had launched Operation CARBON in 2021 and Operation Megh Chakra in 2022 as part of its efforts for rapid response to online child sexual exploitation cases with international linkages and trace accused, suspects and conspirators, located across international jurisdictions, requiring a globally coordinated law enforcement response.