Two Carnival Cruise Line Crew Members Arrested for Child Pornography Charges

Introduction

In a troubling development, two crew members from Carnival Cruise Line were arrested under separate charges related to possession and distribution of child pornography. The incidents, which took place as they disembarked in New Orleans, highlight ongoing concerns over illegal activities among cruise ship personnel.

Details of the Incident

Reza Heta Pratama, an Indonesian national formerly employed on the Carnival Valor, was taken into custody on July 18 after Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) discovered illicit content on his phone and laptop. His arrest followed complaints from coworkers about sexual harassment, which led to a thorough investigation by HSI special agent Jessica Zuppardo.

In a related but separate case, Abdhul Rouvoof Shaik, disembarking from the Carnival Liberty on July 14, was found to have similar illicit material on his WhatsApp account. According to an affidavit by HSI special agent Brian Villaflor, Shaik admitted to participating in a group that shared explicit content involving minors and acknowledged forwarding these videos to others.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Pratama faces serious charges including transportation and possession of child pornography. Shaik is charged with the transportation and distribution of child pornography. The cases have drawn attention to the need for stringent monitoring and enforcement of laws protecting children from exploitation.

Operational Context

Both individuals were arrested as part of routine disembarkation procedures in New Orleans, a common protocol that includes checks for any illegal activities by crew members. The investigations were facilitated by the cooperation between Carnival Cruise Line and law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.