German research team uncovers rape network on Telegram platform
Reporters from investigative format ‘Steuerung F’ (strg_f) of German broadcaster NDR have uncovered an internet rapist network with tens of thousands of users. On the messaging service Telegram, they were able to access private chat groups unnoticed in which users exchanged information on how to drug and sexually abuse women. Pictures and videos of the alleged offences were also posted.
For over a year, the research team from STRG_F observed dozens of chat groups on the messenger service Telegram, documenting chat histories, photos and videos from groups with hundreds to sometimes tens of thousands of members. In these chats, users exchange instructions on how to anaesthetise people for sexual assault and even rape without being noticed. STRG_F was able to order a knockout drug disguised as a hair care product on the Internet. Toxicologist Volker Auwärter from the Freiburg University Medical Centre found several dangerous substances in it: Medetomidine, an animal anaesthetic, flualprazolam, a designer benzodiazepine, and scopolamine, an anti-vomiting drug.
The users of the rapist network goad each other on and offer their partners to other users for rape. Rapes are announced and corresponding recordings are shared.
Commenting on the findings, the Federal Ministry of the Interior said: ‘If the police authorities become aware of any indications of potentially criminal groups, they will actively follow up on the tips.’
Upon request, Telegram explained that it is following up on reports from users and the investigating authorities: ‘Telegram has a zero-tolerance policy towards misuse of its platform. All users caught doing so will be blocked immediately.'
SHOTLIST
C/U Cell phone screen with text of chat message (VO: German translation read by AI voice)
Blurred image with accompanying message: ‘Any strong drugs to sleep this princess and rape her?’ (VO: German translation read by AI voice)
VS Research team members working on computers
Reporter at desk with mobile phones
VS close-ups of lab material during laboratory analysis of knockout drugs (LOCATION: Freiburg University Medical Centre, Germany)
SOUNDBITE (German) Volker Auwärter, Head of Forensic Toxicology at the Freiburg University Medical Centre: "This mixture looks as if he knows his stuff and has deliberately chosen a mixture that actually makes sense from a toxicological point of view."
Anja Schmidt sitting on desk in front of laptop with reporter (LOCATION: Office of German Women Lawyers' Association)
SOUNDBITE (German) Anja Schmidt, German Women Lawyers' Association: "That's a completely different quality. Moving live images of sexualised violence. There really is a need for action.’
Pile of books with code of law
VS Exterior of building of Federal Ministry of the Interior, Berlin
Reporters conducting research on computers and cell phones