Rohan Rane is accused of leading an international online network that allegedly targeted vulnerable minors through social media and Discord
An Indian national has gone on trial in Paris accused of leading an extremist online network that allegedly sexually exploited and abused underage girls in several countries.
Rohan Rane, 29, appeared before a special criminal court in Paris on Monday. The proceedings are being held behind closed doors following a court order, with the case expected to continue through Friday.
French investigators allege that Rane was a leading figure in CVLT, an online group that operated through Discord and promoted neo-Nazi, racist and misogynistic views. The network is accused of targeting vulnerable girls, including minors in the United States, Britain, the Netherlands and Estonia.
Prosecutors allege that victims were groomed online and then subjected to threats, blackmail and coercion. Investigators say some were forced to perform sexual acts or harm themselves, while others were threatened with the release of intimate images.
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The investigation began after the US National Center for Missing and Exploited Children detected material involving a 12-year-old girl in 2020
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The case subsequently involved law-enforcement agencies in several countries
Rane moved to France to study at a business school in Antibes and later worked as a fitness coach. He was arrested in 2021 and faces charges including torture or acts of barbarity against minors, organised extortion and distribution of child sexual abuse material. He could face life imprisonment if convicted.
Five US women, now aged between 18 and 21, have joined the proceedings as civil parties and are expected to give evidence by video link. The court’s decision to hold the trial privately followed concerns over possible intimidation of victims and witnesses.
Rane is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
