Australian Federal Police have released details of a major investigation into an alleged child sex abuse network that operated across three states.
Police said 40 charges had been laid and nine men arrested in relation to child abuse that was filmed, photographed and shared online.
The operation began in February after a tip-off from US authorities.
At least 14 children have been removed from dangerous situations.
Two men aged in their 20s were taken into custody yesterday on the New South Wales Mid North Coast and have each been charged with offences relating to the exploitation of young children.
According to the AFP, the duo abused the children and recorded the crimes only to then share it to an online network.
Police said the arrests were linked to an alleged criminal activity across New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.
Lesa Gale, the Assistant Commissioner described the entire investigation as “most horrific” as authorities came across tens of thousands of images.
She revealed that the investigation involved dozens of specialist operators working around the country.
“Operation Arkstone has shaken some of our most seasoned officers,” Assistant Commissioner Gale said.
“A total of 40 charges have been laid, with three of the men facing life imprisonment.
“It takes a network to break a network and to this end, we want to thank our police partners.”
