The joint investigation by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and the vice-president of the Federal Criminal Police Office, Martina Link, showed that 16,375 cases of sexual abuse of children were reported in 2023, 5.5 percent more than in the previous year.

There were also 1,200 cases of sexual exploitation of adolescents, 5.7 percent more than in 2023.

Similarly, 401 cases of sexual exploitation of minors were reported in Germany last year.

A new record was also reported last year in the production, distribution, acquisition and possession of child pornography, with 45,191 cases, the report said.

According to local specialists, the Internet is becoming increasingly important as a means to commit sexual crimes and as the scenario for these crimes.

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