11 cruise workers arrested in Boston over alleged child sex abuse materials

Federal agents boarded two cruise ships in Boston and arrested 11 foreign workers who are suspected of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, immigration authorities say.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it conducted "Operation Tidal Wave" between Aug. 14 and 16. Border Patrol agents and investigators from the Department of Homeland Security boarded the cruise ships Volendam, which is operated by Holland America Line, and Norwegian Breakaway.

Nine of those arrested are from the Philippines, one is from Indonesia, and the other is from Nicaragua. 

"Following a comprehensive search of the subjects' living quarters and electronic devices, and consultation with the U.S. Attorney's Office, all 11 individuals were processed for removal under Section 212(a)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for crimes involving moral turpitude," CBP said in a statement. "The individuals were processed with the assistance of the shipping agent and are scheduled to depart the United States."

Previous "Operation Tidal Wave" actions in San Diego and Puerto Rico earlier this year resulted in the arrest of 41 crew members from nine ships, the agency said.

"Protecting children from exploitation is among our highest priorities, and this operation demonstrates the critical role CBP officers play in identifying and stopping individuals who pose a threat to public safety," said Julio Caravia, the agency's acting director of field operations in Boston.

Both cruise lines involved in the Boston arrests said they are cooperating with law enforcement. Holland America said it "immediately terminated the individuals involved."

"These allegations are deeply disturbing, and we have zero tolerance for criminal behavior," a Holland America spokesperson said.

"We are aware of the situation and take this matter very seriously," a Norwegian spokesperson said. "The safety, security, and well-being of our guests are of paramount importance, and we remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment across our fleet."