Operation Lívia 2 arrests teenagers for digital slavery

On Tuesday (15), the Civil Police of Mato Grande do Sul, with the support of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, executed search and seizure warrants that resulted in the arrest of six teenagers. They are accused of being part of a group that, through a live stream on Discord, induced a 13-year-old girl to self-harm and suicide.

What motivated the police action

The investigation began after the death of the teenager, who was allegedly coerced into completing challenges involving self-harm and animal cruelty. The case triggered the first phase of Operation Lívia, which led to the arrest of five teenagers and an 18-year-old. The second phase, launched on September 15, sought new culprits, especially administrators and moderators of virtual communities.

How the police identified the suspects

The Cyber Operations Laboratory (Ciberlab) of the National Public Security Secretariat analyzed the digital materials seized in the previous stage – cell phones, media, and other devices – and located new individuals involved. Searches were conducted in the states of Bahia, Distrito Federal, Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Mato Grande do Sul.

What characterizes "digital slavery"

Investigators describe the practice as a dynamic of coercion, blackmail, and control exerted in the virtual environment. Victims are threatened and pressured to obey the group members' directives, which may include self-harm challenges or other forms of violence. The term “digital slavery” has come to be used to describe this type of online exploitation of children and adolescents.

Institutional repercussions

The National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) suspended live broadcasts on the Discord platform while investigations continue. In a statement, the Ministry of Justice emphasized the need for parents and guardians to monitor minors' digital activity, especially their participation in closed groups and behavioral changes that indicate risk.

Next steps for Operation Lívia

The second phase aims to deepen the investigation into the groups' structure, dismantle their networks, and refer potential victims to the protection network. Delegate Anne Karine, from the Civil Police of Mato Grande do Sul, highlighted that the integrated action of security forces is fundamental to confronting these organizations that use the digital environment to exploit the vulnerability of minors.

With information from O GLOBO, Estadão.