A disastrous Federal Bureau of Investigation shootout has occurred following the bust of an alleged online paedophile ring, with connections drawing all the way back to WA.

Nineteen men have been arrested as part of Operation Bacchus, an action undertaken by the Australian Federal Police and the FBI.

Press PLAY to hear more about the shocking case

Sydney Morning Herald crime reporter Perry Duffin explained to Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings how a seemingly unrelated case in Florida uncovered one of the most horrific sex cases in recent times.

“They realised he was part of a global child abuse ring, and it was effectively mostly men sharing these really horrible images,” Mr Duffin said.