Several cruise ship employees were detained by federal agents during a large-scale investigation into child sexual exploitation material aboard ships docked in San Diego, according to reports.
Authorities boarded multiple vessels between April 23 and April 27 as part of the operation, which reportedly involved employees from several cruise lines, including at least one Disney cruise ship.
Federal Agents Boarded Multiple Cruise Ships
According to reports from Variety and local outlet 10 News, Customs and Border Protection agents boarded eight cruise ships during the investigation.
Officials said 28 crew members from different countries were detained after interviews and searches conducted aboard the vessels.
The agency alleged that 27 of the 28 individuals were linked to offenses involving the possession, receipt, viewing, transportation, or distribution of child sexual exploitation material.
Disney Ship Included in Investigation
Reports indicate one of the ships involved was the Disney Magic operated by Disney Cruise Line.
A passenger aboard the ship reportedly recorded video showing several crew members being escorted away in handcuffs by officers.
Witnesses initially believed the people boarding the vessel were regular police officers before noticing markings identifying them as Customs and Border Protection agents.
Disney Responds to the Allegations
In a statement provided to media outlets, Disney said it maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” toward this type of conduct.
The company also stated it fully cooperated with law enforcement during the investigation.
Disney clarified that most of the individuals detained were not employed by its cruise division, while adding that any workers connected to the company are no longer employed there.
Crew Members Reportedly Being Sent Home
Authorities said the detained crew members came from several countries, including the Philippines, Portugal, and Indonesia.
According to CBP statements cited by multiple outlets, the individuals are being returned to their countries of citizenship following the investigation.
Officials have not publicly released the identities of those detained.
Growing Scrutiny Around Cruise Industry Safety
The incident has sparked renewed discussion online about passenger safety and employee screening practices within the cruise industry.
Large cruise operations often involve multinational crews working under international maritime regulations, which can complicate investigations and enforcement procedures.
Federal authorities have not indicated whether additional arrests or charges could follow.
