FBI Director Kash Patel announced a major law enforcement breakthrough this week with the arrest of two individuals alleged to be the ringleaders of a global child exploitation and abuse operation. The group, which authorities say was part of a violent satanic and neo-Nazi extremist network, is accused of targeting and abusing vulnerable minors through online platforms and encrypted messaging forums.
The case, which involved a coordinated effort between the FBI, the Department of Justice, and international law enforcement partners, is being hailed as one of the most significant takedowns of a child exploitation ring in recent years.
High-Profile Arrests
Authorities confirmed the arrest of 21-year-old Leanoidis Varagiannis, known online by the alias “War,” in Greece on April 28, 2025. In a separate but related operation, 20-year-old Prasan Nepal, also known as “Trippy,” was arrested in North Carolina on April 22.
Both men are accused of co-leading an online group called “764,” and its darker offshoot “764 Inferno,” which law enforcement describes as a “nihilistic accelerationist” network. According to federal officials, the group not only produced and disseminated graphic child sexual abuse material (CSAM), but also promoted violence, psychological manipulation, and the ritualistic abuse of minors.
The suspects face multiple federal charges, including conspiracy to produce and distribute CSAM, child enticement, and possession of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors.
FBI Director: “Zero Tolerance for This Evil”
In his official statement, FBI Director Kash Patel called the arrests a “watershed moment” in the fight against child exploitation and online extremism.
“This is a significant case in our renewed mission to crack down on child sexual exploitation and abuse—heinous crimes that no child or parent should ever be faced with,” Patel stated. “We will continue to use every resource at our disposal to dismantle these evil networks and rescue the most vulnerable.”
He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to pursuing leads in both the U.S. and abroad, especially those that involve organized ideological groups engaging in exploitation.
DOJ Response and Legal Action
Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who has prioritized online child protection since her appointment, echoed the FBI director’s stance, describing the bust as a “resounding victory for justice and child safety.”
“These arrests are a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting children and bringing those who exploit them to account, no matter where in the world they operate,” Bondi said.
Extradition proceedings are underway for Varagiannis, who is being held by Greek authorities. Prasan Nepal remains in federal custody in the United States and is awaiting arraignment in federal court.
Disturbing Details and Group Profile
Investigators revealed that 764 operated across several online platforms, including encrypted apps, private forums, and hidden servers. The group allegedly sought out children and teens suffering from emotional or psychological distress, often posing as trusted peers before engaging in exploitation.
What made the group especially disturbing, according to officials, was its blend of child sexual abuse with a broader extremist ideology. Members glorified violence, incorporated satanic rituals into their abuse content, and posted guides encouraging others to abuse and manipulate minors under the guise of nihilistic and anti-social belief systems.
Several digital devices seized during the arrests are undergoing forensic analysis, and authorities expect additional arrests as the investigation widens.
Global Coordination and Law Enforcement Collaboration
The operation was the result of months of international collaboration. U.S. law enforcement worked with partners in Europe and Asia to track communications, trace crypto transactions, and identify the perpetrators.
The FBI praised the cooperation of Greek law enforcement in facilitating Varagiannis’s arrest and vowed to continue its global crackdown on dark web and encrypted network abuse rings.
Officials from INTERPOL, Europol, and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children are also believed to have provided support during the investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Victim Support
The FBI’s Victim Services Division is actively working to identify and support child victims connected to this operation. Investigators have already uncovered several disturbing videos and images tied to the group’s activity, and they anticipate uncovering more as data from seized servers is processed.
Law enforcement is encouraging members of the public with information about the group or other online exploitation to contact the FBI through its tip portal or speak confidentially with child advocacy agencies.
Public Appeal for Information
The FBI urges anyone with relevant knowledge to report it at www.fbi.gov/tips, or to reach out to local authorities.
Additionally, if you or someone you know has been affected by child exploitation or abuse, resources and counseling are available through:
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National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC): 1-800-THE-LOST
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Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
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RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE
References
- American Faith. (2025, May 1). Satanic, Neo-Nazi Child Exploitation Ring Busted by FBI. Retrieved from https://americanfaith.com/fbi-busts-satanic-neo-nazi-child-exploitation/
- Daily Caller. (2025, May 1). Editor Daily Rundown: Kash Patel Announces Arrests of Suspected Child Exploitation Ring Leaders. Retrieved from https://dailycaller.com/2025/05/01/kash-patel-fbi-arrests-suspected-child-exploitation-ring-leaders-764-accelerationists/
- Trending Politics News. (2025, May 1). Kash Patel’s FBI Busts Satanic Child Abuse Operation. Retrieved from https://trendingpoliticsnews.com/new-kash-patel-announces-bust-of-satanic-child-abuse-operation-mstef/