In a significant breakthrough, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully dismantled an international cybercrime network involved in online child sexual exploitation. This operation, named Operation Hawk, was launched based on critical inputs from the United States, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in combating cybercrimes. This development is crucial for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking, as it underscores key issues in cybercrime and law enforcement.
Key Details of Operation Hawk
The CBI’s International Operations Division registered cases against two accused individuals based in Delhi and Mangalore under relevant Indian laws, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, Indian Penal Code, and Information Technology Act, 2000. The accused were allegedly using the social media platform Discord to engage in objectionable chats with minor girls from the USA, intimidating them to share obscene images and videos.
- Sheikh Muizz Ahmed (Mangalore): Operated under the username “heisenberg7343” on Discord, allegedly inducing a minor girl to engage in sexualized chats and share explicit content during March 2024. He has been arrested and sent to judicial custody.
- Mukul Saini (Delhi): Engaged in similar activities during 2023-2024, using Discord and another platform, “Arisu,” to exploit a minor girl. The CBI conducted searches at various locations in Delhi, recovering electronic devices like mobile phones and hard disks containing incriminating evidence.
Did You Know? The CBI has been actively combating online child sexual exploitation through previous operations like Operation Carbon (2021) and Operation Megh Chakra (2022), showcasing India’s commitment to tackling this global issue.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Questions related to cybercrime, international cooperation, and law enforcement agencies like the CBI are frequently asked in competitive exams. Here are some key points to remember:
- The CBI is India’s premier investigative agency, responsible for handling high-profile cases, including cybercrimes and corruption.
- POCSO Act, 2012: A comprehensive law to protect children from sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and pornography.
- Global cooperation through agencies like Interpol and foreign law enforcement (e.g., FBI) is critical in addressing transnational crimes.
- The rise of cybercrimes, especially those targeting vulnerable groups like children, is a pressing issue in current affairs.
Exam-Relevant Facts
Operation Hawk is part of a broader effort by the CBI’s Online Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (OCSAE) Prevention/Investigation Unit, established in 2019, to tackle online child sexual abuse. According to Interpol, India reported approximately 2.4 million instances of online child sexual abuse between 2017 and 2020, with 80% of victims being girls under 14 years.
Source: News on Air, April 30, 2025