# CBP Removes Crew for Exploitation Materials in Boston

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of Boston has removed 87 cruise ship crewmembers for possession and distribution of child sexual exploitation materials as part of Operation Tidal Wave, a multiagency enforcement initiative. This ongoing effort, coordinated with Homeland Security Investigations and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, targets criminal activities involving child sexual abuse materials among maritime personnel and will continue through the fiscal year. The operation underscores the federal government's commitment to interagency collaboration and strict enforcement of laws against exploitation.

- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on interagency coordination, which may increase demand for integrated investigative technologies and secure data-sharing platforms.
- Contractors providing maritime security, digital forensics, and law enforcement support services may find expanded opportunities linked to Operation Tidal Wave and related enforcement programs.
- Agencies involved in port security and criminal investigations may seek enhanced training, software, and hardware solutions to support ongoing enforcement efforts.
- This initiative highlights the importance of compliance and monitoring tools for maritime operators to prevent illicit activities and support federal enforcement mandates.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 26, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

### Key Quotes
> The success of Operation Tidal Wave reflects the unwavering dedication of our officers and partners to protect the most vulnerable.
> — Julio Caravia, Acting Director of Field Operations

### Sources
- [Operation Tidal Wave in Boston Leads to 87 Cruise Ship Crew Removals by CBP for Child Sexual Exploitation Materials | U.S. Customs and Border Protection](https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/operation-tidal-wave-boston-leads-87-cruise-ship-crew-removals-cbp) - CBP