Four ‘Satanic Cult’ Members Arrested in Sydney

Darwin, 02 December– Four individuals have been arrested in Sydney on charges related to the production and distribution of child sexual abuse content with a satanic or ritualistic theme, authorities said.

According to the New South Wales Police, the arrests followed a lengthy investigation that culminated in a series of raids across Sydney last week. The police described the operation as targeting an active online network involved in creating, storing, distributing, and facilitating child sexual abuse material. Many of the seized materials reportedly contained “ritualistic” or “satanic” elements.

The coordinated operation covered six locations. At a Waterloo address, 26-year-old Landon Germano-Motta was arrested. He faces multiple charges including possession, distribution, and online supply of child sexual abuse material, as well as possession of content depicting bestiality.

Germano-Motta identified himself as the founder and editor of an independent media outlet called Underground Media Network. He appeared in court on Friday but did not apply for bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for 29 January.

Additional raids, supported by riot control units, were conducted at locations in Ultimo and Malabar. From a Malabar unit block, three more individuals were arrested:

Benjamin Raymond Dreidel, 46, faces charges including production of child sexual abuse content online, failure to comply with reporting obligations, and possession of drugs.

Mark Andrew Sendeki, 42, is accused of possessing and accessing child sexual abuse material.

Stuart Woods Riches, 39, faces charges including possession of bestiality content, accessing child sexual abuse material, failure to comply with reporting obligations, and drug possession.

All three appeared in court on Friday and did not seek bail.

The New South Wales Police stated that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining whether the network extends further.