Disney cruise staff among 28 arrested in child exploitation investigation

Staff members linked to a Disney cruise ship were among dozens of individuals arrested in a federal investigation into child sexual exploitation material (CSEM), according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and reporting cited by multiple outlets, including Variety.

Between April 23 and April 27, CBP officers conducted coordinated enforcement actions aboard eight cruise ships docked at U.S. ports, including San Diego. The operation resulted in the arrest of 28 individuals identified as suspected crew members from multiple countries, including the Philippines, Portugal, and Indonesia.

Authorities stated that 27 of the 28 suspects were allegedly involved in offenses related to the receipt, possession, transportation, distribution, or viewing of child sexual exploitation material. Officials confirmed that visas for those individuals were cancelled, and they were subsequently returned to their countries of citizenship following processing. The agency did not publicly release the names of those arrested.

A spokesperson for Disney Cruise Line said the company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for illegal activity and confirmed full cooperation with law enforcement. The statement added that any employees linked to the investigation are no longer with the company.

The federal operation drew additional attention after passenger-recorded footage surfaced online showing immigration enforcement activity aboard one cruise ship. One traveller reportedly captured video of a crew member being detained during the investigation.

CBP did not disclose the names of the other cruise lines involved in the operation, and the broader investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not indicated whether additional arrests or charges are expected as the case continues.