USKOK and Police Launch Major Operation: 11 Arrests Across Multiple Counties, Damages Estimated in Millions

A large-scale operation involving USKOK and Croatian police has resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals accused of being part of an organized criminal group engaged in intellectual property theft and offenses targeting computer systems, programs, and data. The suspects were apprehended in several counties, with authorities estimating damages exceeding two million euros.

Illegal Internet TV Scheme

The arrested individuals allegedly operated a scheme selling unauthorized internet TV packages. For around 15 euros, customers were granted access to 400 television channels, bypassing legal distribution rights. This activity, which violates intellectual property laws, has caused significant financial harm to content providers.

The Role of NXT Software

The use of NXT software to facilitate the illegal streaming highlights the technical sophistication of the suspects and underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling online piracy. NXT has long been associated with piracy networks that steal and distribute copyrighted content globally, often bypassing legal protections.

International Coordination

While the arrests and investigations took place across multiple Croatian counties—including Split-Dalmatia, Zagreb, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Požega-Slavonia, and Istria—this operation is part of a broader international effort. Evidence collection and related actions were simultaneously carried out in other countries, reflecting a globally coordinated approach to tackling such criminal activities.

Authorities’ Statements

USKOK has stated that the operation follows a detailed criminal investigation led by the Cybersecurity Service of the Criminal Police Directorate and the Split-Dalmatia Police Department. After questioning the suspects, decisions will be made on further legal proceedings, and updates will be provided to the public.

Croatia’s Minister of the Interior, Davor Božinović, emphasized the significance of the international collaboration, particularly with Europol. “In Croatia alone, the estimated damages are close to two million euros. However, this is just the beginning of the investigation, and further evidence may reveal the full scope of the operation,” Božinović said.

A Coordinated Crackdown on Cybercrime

This case highlights the increasing sophistication and global reach of criminal networks involved in digital piracy and intellectual property violations. The authorities’ decisive action demonstrates a commitment to addressing these crimes and mitigating the economic harm caused to legitimate content creators and distributors.

As investigations continue, more details are expected to emerge about the scale of the operation and the international connections involved.