At least eight arrests linked to forums that encourage drugging and raping women
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- At least eight people have been arrested in the UK following investigations into online networks that encourage men to drug and rape women, with 270 individuals linked to forums sharing footage of coordinated sexual abuse.
- The National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed that such abuse is often carried out by long-term partners and can persist over decades, with evidence shared with international law enforcement agencies.
- Fourteen investigations are ongoing, eight victims have been identified and supported, and international cooperation involving agencies from multiple countries has led to identifying over 150 offenders and victims, as well as four new online communities.
- Law enforcement officials emphasized the severity and secrecy of these crimes, urging victims to seek help even if they lack clear memories or proof, and committing to bringing offenders to justice and supporting survivors.
- The case echoes that of Gisèle Pelicot, a French woman who was repeatedly drugged and attacked by dozens of men invited by her husband, highlighting the devastating impact of such abuse.
