UK authorities have intensified action against illegal streaming after uncovering a large scale operation that allegedly earned more than ₹31 crore or £3 million from unlawful streaming services. The case highlights how illegal streaming has grown into a sophisticated digital crime impacting broadcasters and consumers alike.
The City of London Police said coordinated raids across Greater Manchester and Lancashire last week dismantled a complex streaming infrastructure. Officers seized 10 high capacity servers and advanced equipment worth around ₹7.8 crore or £750000, all used to power illegal streaming platforms. The investigation into the streaming racket began after a broadcaster raised concerns about suspicious streaming activity, leading investigators to trace server locations and financial flows linked to the illegal streaming network.
Four individuals were arrested for their alleged role in running the illegal streaming operation. Those detained include a 40 year old man from Blackpool, a 49 year old man from Bolton, and two women aged 40 and 21 from Bolton. All were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to distribute copyright infringing streaming content and money laundering. Police said one suspect is believed to have personally earned more than ₹31 crore by operating and managing illegal streaming services. The suspects have since been released under investigation while inquiries continue.
During the raids, specialist teams shut down the servers used for illegal streaming, immediately cutting off streaming access for thousands of users. Detective Constable Jordan Day said the case shows how streaming piracy has evolved into an organised and profitable crime model. Investigators confirmed the seized servers were capable of delivering premium sports and entertainment streaming through paid illegal subscriptions promoted online and on social media. Police also warned the public that illegal streaming exposes users to malware, data theft, and financial scams. Forensic teams are now analysing streaming data, customer records, and financial logs recovered during the operation, and further arrests linked to illegal streaming have not been ruled out.
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