Australian authorities have charged four men in Sydney following an investigation into an alleged international satanic child sex abuse material ring, marking a significant law enforcement action against online child exploitation networks.

The New South Wales (NSW) Police Force confirmed the arrests on Monday, after executing six search warrants at multiple Sydney addresses as part of Strike Force Constantine, a specialized investigative team targeting organized child exploitation.

Details of the Arrests

The men, aged 26, 39, 42, and 46, were arrested on Thursday and now face more than 20 charges related to:

• Possessing and distributing child abuse material
• Bestiality
• Drug possession
• Failing to comply with reporting obligations
• Contravening a prohibition order

All four suspects were refused bail and are scheduled to appear in court in late January 2026.

Police released footage showing officers in tactical gear executing one of the arrests, highlighting the serious and coordinated nature of the operation. Authorities identified the 26-year-old as a key figure within the network.

Investigation and Nature of the Material

NSW police stated that the network circulated material featuring ritualistic or satanic themes via a website administered internationally. While authorities have yet to verify the locations where the material was produced or identify all victims, the investigation uncovered thousands of videos depicting the abuse of children, including infants and children aged 12 and under.

Superintendent Jayne Doherty, commander of the sex crimes squad, emphasized the severity of the case:

“Police will allege in court that this international group were engaging in conversations and sharing material which depicted child abuse and the torture of children involving symbols and rituals linked to Satanism and the occult.”

Doherty noted that the arrested individuals are not believed to have recorded the abuse themselves, but authorities are collaborating with international partners to identify the victims and ensure their safety.

Public Safety Concerns

Due to the disturbing content and conversations observed during the investigation, police expressed concern about the potential risk to children that the suspects might encounter in their daily lives. The operation underscores ongoing efforts by NSW Police and global law enforcement agencies to combat organized child exploitation networks.

Legal Proceedings

The suspects will face court proceedings later in January 2026, with prosecutors expected to present evidence of possession, distribution, and the international nature of the alleged network. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to work alongside international law enforcement to trace the origins of the material and protect potential victims.