Florida authorities are investigating an international child exploitation network, uncovering more than a million images and videos of abuse and identifying a Turkish national living in Adana province as the suspected ringleader, local media reported on Thursday, citing FOX News.
According to the report, the ongoing investigation in Florida has led to the arrest of seven men involved in an international child sexual abuse material (CSAM) ring, with authorities confirming that the ringleader, identified as Mehmet Bozuyuk, is based in Adana.
The investigation was sparked by a proactive criminal review conducted by a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) agent in July 2024. It was discovered that CSAM was being sold through online ads, particularly on TikTok, where the suspects allegedly purchased the illicit content.
One undercover agent working the case was able to purchase 6.7 terabytes of child pornography, comprising roughly 1.2 million videos and pictures, FOX News cited Special Agent in Charge Mark Brutnell as saying.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier expressed outrage, calling the advertisement of such material on platforms like TikTok “disgusting.” He emphasized the need for social media platforms to do more in combating the spread of CSAM.
“Every image of child abuse leaves a lasting scar on an innocent life, and we will aggressively prosecute these heinous crimes,” said Uthmeier.
The arrestees, mostly from Florida, have been charged with crimes including the purchase and distribution of child pornography, conspiracy to commit racketeering and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
Authorities were able to link Krunalkumar Modi, a New Jersey resident, to the larger distribution ring led by “John De Vil.” Modi was arrested in July 2024 after it was discovered that he had been selling CSAM through a website. As the investigation unfolded, it was revealed that he was operating under the direction of Bozuyuk, who was using multiple stolen identities to carry out illegal activities globally.
Authorities are currently seeking the extradition of Bozuyuk from Turkey, where he remains a fugitive. He faces multiple charges, including racketeering, conspiracy, money laundering, promoting the sexual performance of a child, distributing child sexual abuse material, transmitting such material across state lines via electronic devices, distributing obscene content and unlawful use of a communication device.
Additionally, an arrest warrant has been issued for Ximena Del Real Maqueda from Oregon, who is linked to money laundering in connection to the ring.
The investigation is ongoing and authorities have vowed to continue their efforts in shutting down networks involved in child exploitation. Uthmeier described the arrests as only the beginning, with plans for further legal action against all involved.