IFPI Latin America Flash; 'Home delivery' Websites Raided In Colombia

LONDON, UK (IFPI) - On 10th April 2006 the Colombian National Police cyber crimes units, (Grupo de Delitos Informaticos) in conjunction with the Attorney General's office concluded a six month multi-jurisdictional internet investigation involving the so-called 'Home Delivery' market of illicit music, films, games and software in Colombia. These websites were taking orders online, for mostly music and films 'custom' CDs and using messengers to deliver the products to the buyer's home. The investigation focused on seven websites in the cities of Bogota, Cali, Medellin and Manizales.

Based on the evidence gleaned from the websites a total of seven search warrants were obtained on physical locations in the above mentioned cities. The investigation resulted in the arrest of seven people, the seizure of nine computers, 23 burners, 4,324 music CDRs and 3,318 film DVDs. In addition, authorities seized accounting ledgers, customer lists, receipts and banking records. The following sites were dismantled: www.cdsmedallo.tk, https://soldvd.farvista.net, https://tiendadvd.8k.com, www.gamespc.tk, www.todoa5000.tk, www.paincds.tk, and www.dragonjar.us. Although these websites were acting independently their volume of activity represented a significant amount of music, game and film pirate products found online in Colombia.

The cyber crimes unit has only been in existence for six months and was formed, in part, due to IFPI recommendations for a special focus on internet piracy. IFPI's regional investigator based in Bogota played a key role assisting in the formation of this unit. The investigation continues and we expect a second phase to take place shortly in other major cities.
Congratulations to the Colombian authorities for a job well done. For more information contact Emilio Garcia at [email protected].