Met Police Nab Nearly 40 Suspects in Major Online Child Abuse Sting
Met officers have arrested 38 suspects and rescued 138 children during a week-long crackdown on online child abuse, latest figures reveal.
Operation Legatum: A Major Blow to Online Predators
The Met’s Online Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (OCSAE) Unit led the blitz from May 18 to 23, executing 82 warrants and seizing 278 pieces of evidence. Officers from all over London targeted individuals from diverse backgrounds in a high-stakes effort to clean up the web.
Detective Superintendent Helen Flanagan said: “Since lockdown began, our officers have been flat out tracking those suspected of harming children online. There’s no such thing as ‘just looking’—every image shows a crime and the abuse of a real child. If you view or share this vile material, you’re committing a horrific offence.”
Lockdown Fuels Online Threat
The lockdown has pushed more youngsters online, giving predators greater opportunity. Between March 23 and April 23, officers protected 92 children and arrested 45 suspects.
Det Supt Flanagan warned: “Lockdown means more online time – and unfortunately a bigger pool of predators out there trying to groom children. Parents need to stay alert and talk openly about online dangers.”
Parents Urged to Step Up Online Safety
- Start conversations about internet use and spot any worrying behavioural changes in children.
- Activate parental controls and privacy settings on all devices.
- Use trusted resources like the ThinkUKnow website for guidance.
Flanagan added: “It can feel overwhelming keeping up with apps and sites kids use. But help is out there – don’t be afraid to ask and protect your children.”
Support and Partnership Across the Board
The Met works with government, tech firms, and charities like Lucy Faithfull’s Stop It Now! campaign. Donald Findlater, director of the helpline, said:
“The Met’s work highlights just how serious online child sexual crimes are. Those caught risk arrest, prison, and being placed on the sex offenders register. We also hear from people who want to stop and seek help before it’s too late. Our helpline supports thousands who worry about their own or a loved one’s behaviour—especially during lockdown when online risks rise.”
With over 200 specialist officers dedicated to tackling online child abuse across London, the Met is strengthening its fight against these horrific crimes. Funding from the Mayor’s Office has doubled the size of these teams since January, allowing faster action on complex cases.
Flanagan concluded: “No one can hide behind a screen. We will find offenders and bring them to justice.”
