Three held over online exploitation of girls

The Public Prosecution ordered three suspects to be held for seven days pending investigation after they were accused of targeting and sexually exploiting three girls through social media platforms. The Head of the Family and Child Prosecution said the Public Prosecution received three separate reports from the Child Protection Unit in Cyberspace at the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption, Economic and Electronic Security. The reports stated that three girls, aged between 14 and 16, were targeted and sexually exploited through social media. The unit's investigation led to the identification and arrest of the three suspects. During questioning, the suspects admitted communicating with the girls through social media, chatting with them and exchanging private photos. The Public Prosecution ordered the suspects to be detained for seven days pending further investigation. Authorities also seized their mobile phones for technical examination. The prosecution also heard detailed statements from the three girls as the investigation continues. The Head of the Family and Child Prosecution urged parents to closely monitor their children’s social media use and teach them about the risks of communicating with strangers online. Parents were also encouraged to create a safe environment where children feel comfortable reporting any online communication or content that makes them feel worried or unsafe.