Two women arrested over TikTok livestream involving child with Down syndrome

Nicosia, Cyprus. Two women were arrested on Thursday in connection with a TikTok livestream in which a child with Down syndrome was allegedly encouraged to expose himself, police said.

The arrests were made by the cybercrime unit after investigators assessed evidence gathered during the inquiry.

Related: Police complete probe into TikTok livestream involving child with Down syndrome

RelatedPolice complete probe into TikTok livestream involving child with Down syndrome

Investigation and court appearance

Police said the women were expected to appear before a court later on Thursday, where authorities would seek their continued detention.

The case concerns a video broadcast live on TikTok in which the women allegedly encouraged the child to display his genitals. Police previously said initial findings indicated the women could be heard asking the child to expose himself while mocking him during the broadcast.

Public complaints and earlier inquiry

The footage circulated online and prompted condemnation from disability organisations, which described the incident as abusive behaviour.

Police launched the investigation after receiving complaints from members of the public. According to information reported by news website Sigma, a complaint had been filed with police as early as June 1.

The earlier investigation was discontinued after officers were unable to identify those involved at the time.

Calls to stop sharing footage

The case returned to public attention after organisations representing people with disabilities criticised the handling of the investigation and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Speaking to CyBC on Thursday, Cyprus Confederation of People with Disabilities’ Organisations chairwoman Themis Anthopoulou urged the public to stop sharing the footage.