The Civil Police of Brazil initiated Operação Pueri in Periculum, aimed at investigating and addressing crimes related to the sexual exploitation and grooming of minors in Niterói, part of the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro. The operation was prompted by an anonymous tip about a messaging group on a popular app that included students from a local school who were exposed to disturbing imagery related to child sexual exploitation, extreme violence, and content deemed homophobic and racist. Police reported that the group had around 500 members and had a significant emotional impact on the children involved.

Police agents executed search and seizure warrants against three identified suspects who are believed to be the administrators of the group. The investigation is being handled by the Delegacia de Proteção à Criança e ao Adolescente de Niterói (DPCA-Niterói), which is specifically tasked with protecting the rights and safety of children and adolescents. The authorities are actively working to gather evidence, including the confiscation of mobile phones linked to the suspects, to further understand the extent of the illicit activities.

This operation emphasizes the ongoing issue of child exploitation in Brazil, particularly through digital platforms where perpetrators can exploit vulnerabilities in young individuals. The investigation aims not only to hold perpetrators accountable but also to bring to light the critical need for preventative measures and educational programs to safeguard children from such threats in their everyday environments.