Europol’s latest Victim Identification Task Force has tentatively identified 18 children who were sexually abused, following a two-week operation involving experts from 28 countries. The task force met at Europol’s headquarters in The Hague from Sept. 7 to 18, 2026. During the operation, specialists analysed 377 datasets and successfully geolocated 147 victims. They also identified five suspected offenders in several countries. Experts reviewed images, videos and intelligence to uncover clues about victims, offenders and the likely origins of abuse material. Europol said its task forces have identified 1,260 victims and contributed to the apprehension of 348 offenders since the program began in 2014. The operations have analysed 8,642 datasets and generated 2,608 investigative leads. Europol hosts the task force twice a year, using its Image and Video Analysis System to examine and cross-check evidence with national and international partners. The agency’s public “Stop Child Abuse – Trace an Object” campaign has received more than 28,600 tips since its launch in 2017. Those reports have contributed to 23 national investigations and the identification of 35 victims and nine offenders. Europol said Poland and Italy have also adopted the task force format this year. Post navigation Southport Rescue Enters New Era