In a major crackdown, police across 10 countries have dismantled what they believe is the world’s largest piracy network. Dubbed “Operation Takendown,” the international effort targeted a criminal group accused of illegally distributing pirated content to over 22 million users across Europe. The network reportedly generated over €250 million in illegal revenue each month.
Raids were conducted in the UK, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and Romania. Authorities seized €1.65 million in cryptocurrency, arrested 11 suspects, and placed 102 others under investigation. Europol, which coordinated the two-year probe, also confiscated 29 computer servers and hundreds of IPTV devices used to stream pirated films, TV series, and live channels. Around 100 websites and domains suspected of hosting illegal content were taken down.
“This operation highlights the scale of the challenge our industry faces from international pirate networks,” said Mark Mulready, co-president of the Audiovisual Anti-Piracy Alliance (AAPA). The organisation supported law enforcement with technical training and on-the-ground assistance.
Europol revealed the investigation uncovered links to other criminal activities, including money laundering and cyber crime. Authorities monitored social media platforms and illegal streaming forums to track the network’s operations.
Matt Hibbert, anti-piracy director at Sky, said the takedown sends a strong message. “We are committed to dismantling pirate networks across borders and holding their leaders accountable,” he stated. Efforts to end digital piracy will continue, aiming to protect consumers and the creative industry from further harm.
