More than 25 children have been identified as victims of online child abuse material this year

According to a meeting of the Policing Authority, over 25 Irish children were identified by Gardaí as victims of online child abuse material in the first three months of this year. Some of these victims, according to Detective Chief Superintendent Colm Noonan, were as young as five years old. 

(Also read Three individuals detained in connection with the murder of a Croatian man in Dublin.)

Gardaí voice concerns on the rise of online child abuse material

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris emphasised the severity of the situation, noting the rise in child sex abuse imagery. Predators use social media and gaming platforms to target children, grooming and abusing them. In some cases, children were manipulated into involving younger siblings or friends in the abuse, with these videos being distributed further. 

Dr. Elaine Byrne, Chair of the Policing Authority, stressed the importance of having more specialised child interviewers and voiced concern about a backlog in the analysis of devices related to these crimes. Even while there has been improvement, more has to be done to safeguard vulnerable kids, especially those in state custody.

Gardaí are working to improve their response, including offering joint training with Tusla for specialist interviewers. They are also increasing efforts in roads policing, and addressing threats to politicians and the safeguarding of children from exploitation. To properly address these grave and worrisome challenges, swift and thorough action is required.