Victims”The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is calling on members of the public to help identify everyday objects that could hold the key to locating victims of online child sexual exploitation.

The appeal, part of the Stop Child Abuse – Trace an Object initiative, asks Australians to examine images released by the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) and come forward with any information that could assist ongoing investigations.

To the untrained eye, the photos may appear ordinary — a bedspread decorated with tropical flowers, framed red football jerseys, or a kitchen bench with familiar household items. But for investigators, these small details may be crucial leads in identifying victims, offenders, or locations linked to online child abuse.

Now in its fourth Australian release, the Trace an Object campaign originated with Europol and has proven effective worldwide in solving “cold case” online child sexual exploitation (OCSE) files. The AFP says nine new images have been released in the latest round, each believed to have an Australian connection through either a victim, offender, or location.

While the images have been edited to remove any explicit content, investigators are relying on the diverse knowledge and experiences of Australians to help recognize distinctive objects, settings, or regional details.

AFP officials urge anyone who recognizes an item or has relevant information to contact the AFP immediately. Every tip, no matter how small, could help identify and protect a child victim and bring perpetrators to justice.

For more details or to view the publicly released images, visit the AFP website: afp.gov.au/news-centre/media-release/afps-public-plea-help-us-trace-object-find-online-child-sexual.

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The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is urging the public to help identify everyday objects that could lead to victims of online child sexual exploitation. Through the Stop Child Abuse Trace an Object initiative, the AFP has released new images believed to have an Australian link. Every detail no matter how small could help protect a child and bring offenders to justice.

If you recognize any item, contact the AFP.
 afp.gov.au/news-centre/media-release/afps-public-plea-help-us-trace-object-find-online-child-sexual