Switzerland shuts down darknet pedophile platforms

Two darknet platforms frequented by pedophiles was shut down by Swiss authorities on Wednesday, nearly a year after the man accused of operating them was first detained.

The owner, a 37-year-old Swiss citizen, has remained in detention while the investigation against him progresses.

The darknet is a part of the internet only accessible using special software and is often used for criminal activities.

Officials did not shut down the sites in question immediately, deciding instead to use them to collect clues and evidence.

Several people have been identified who are now under suspicion of engaging in criminal activities related to the sites, which were used internationally.

Information about possible charges had been sent to the relevant authorities.

Users would visit the site to share experiences of abuse carried out or to exchange fantasies.

The platforms had been operational since 2017 and had about 20,000 registered users at the time the plug was pulled.