Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said the suspects comprised 67 primary targets and two accomplices, with ages ranging from 15 to 66.

He said the operation targeted crimes involving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and online child sexual exploitation, which were becoming more complex and crossed borders.

“In Malaysia, the operation was carried out simultaneously from April 6 to 8 involving 101 targets identified through our intelligence network across all 14 contingents nationwide,” he told a press conference at Bukit Aman.

Khalid said investigations found the suspects used a structured online network to access, store and share CSAM through various online platforms, including closed messaging applications.

“There are suspects who acted as group administrators by offering access to CSAM for a fee through e-wallet transactions and QR codes, indicating the existence of a commercial element in this crime,” he said.

A total of 126 items were seized, including 124 digital devices.

He said initial checks uncovered 498,690 digital files, including 204,934 CSAM-related files and 293,765 adult pornography files.

Khalid said 67 investigation papers were opened, with 62 cases resulting in 81 charges so far.

He added that such crimes were becoming increasingly organised and profit-driven, and said police would continue its enforcement activities.