In Thessaloniki, a 21-year-old Greek-American was arrested on charges of trafficking child pornography and playing a leadership role in the extremist organization “764”. The arrest is the result of international cooperation between Greek and American authorities to combat one of the world’s most dangerous criminal networks.
Child pornography ring: Arrest of “764” organization members in Thessaloniki
The Greek-American L.B., known by the alias “War,” was arrested along with an 18-year-old accomplice in the Panorama area. The operation was carried out following a warrant from the 6th Investigating Magistrate of Thessaloniki, after an extensive investigation that lasted several years.
Judicial authorities characterize the case as extremely serious, as it involves an international network specializing in the exploitation of minors and trafficking of child pornography. The Greek-American defendant had been arrested again in April following a request from INTERPOL, but the Court of Appeals rejected his extradition to the US.
Characteristics and activities of organization 764
The criminal organization “764” consists of nihilists and violent extremists with neo-Nazi and Satanist ideologies. According to the Washington Prosecutor’s Office, the Greek-American defendant led the subgroup “764 Inferno,” which operated through encrypted applications.
The network’s objectives include:
• Destruction of organized society through corruption
• Exploitation of vulnerable groups, primarily minors
• Causing social unrest and overthrowing the global order
Methods of exploitation and child pornography trafficking
Organization members target children aged 7 to 15 years, often with mental health issues. Through deception they extract nude photos or videos of sexual abuse, which they then distribute on the dark web for high fees.
In the United States, incidents have been recorded where organization members influenced minor victims to self-harm or commit suicide, recording these acts on video. Child pornography constitutes a core element of their criminal activities.
International action and arrests
According to a high-ranking FBI official, the “764” organization is considered among the most extreme globally. In the US alone, 250 cases connected to the network are under investigation, while multiple arrests have been made both within and outside American territory.
The Greek-American defendant denied the charges but was ordered to remain in custody. He faces charges for membership in a criminal organization, aggravated assault against vulnerable individuals, child pornography, and revenge pornography. His 18-year-old accomplice will appear in court on Monday for the same charges.