Violence against women: Europol uncovers international network of rapists, 57 arrests

Rome, 5 July (LaPresse) – Law enforcement agencies from seven countries, led by the German and British authorities and supported by Europol, have identified 156 people, including victims and perpetrators, in an unprecedented operation aimed at combating drug-facilitated sexual assaults. The investigation – explains Europol – forms part of the Medusa project launched in 2026. This is a collaborative initiative aimed at combating and dismantling online networks that facilitate sexual abuse, whilst strengthening cross-border strategies for the investigation and prosecution of such crimes. The project is led by Germany and the United Kingdom, with the participation of Brazil, Canada, France, Hungary, the Netherlands, Spain, the United States and Europol. Law enforcement agencies from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Brazil, the United Kingdom and the United States took part in the operation. Investigations are ongoing. A total of 57 people have been arrested as part of the operation.