Police swoop on UK child porn web ring

The Metropolitan Police raided 18 addresses in the UK and Northern Ireland this morning as it cracked down on the alleged distribution of child pornography via the web.

Operation Pilham involved eight forces around the country and followed a five-month investigation by the Met's Clubs and Vice Obscene Publications and Internet Unit.

The suspects targeted in the sting were allegedly using online groups and internet communities to distribute indecent images of children. Out of the 18 warrants served, 11 were in London and the Home Counties.

In light of recent reports that internet chat rooms and message boards have become a haven and hunting ground for paedophiles, the Met said that today's raids demonstrate that the web is not 'unpoliceable' and that offenders can no longer hide behind the anonymity of technology.

Superintendent Chris Bradford, of the Clubs and Vice Unit, said: "Technology doesn't make you invisible; we can and will trace and identify you.

"There exists a high level of co-operation between UK police forces and internet service providers, which will continue.

"This morning's operation is an excellent example of the Met's continuing work to track down those involved in making and distributing indecent images of children.

"This type of crime involves one of the most vulnerable groups in society and we will take every step we can to protect them."