World of Secrets

Do you know how much money I was getting paid?" A former assistant who travelled with The Abercrombie Guys agrees to talk: "They were trying to act so perfect,” he says - what could they have been hiding?” Have you got a story to tell? Email rianna@bbc.com. Let us know what you think of the season using the hashtag #WorldofSecrets This podcast refers to sexual abuse and contains interviews that some listeners may find upsetting, as well as some occasional strong language. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is presented and investigated by Rianna Croxford Series Producers: Ruth Evans and Alys Harte Senior Producer: Emma Close Development Producer: Hannah Livingston Investigation Editor: Ed Campbell Podcast Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Executive Editor: Emma Rippon Studio Engineers: Neil Churchill, Andy Fell, Gareth Jones, and Ali Rezakhani Production Coordinators: Debbie Richford and Sophie Hill Commissioning Editor: Dylan Haskins Commissioning Executive: Louise Kattenhorn Assistant Commissioner: Natasha Johansson This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Panorama. If you are in the UK, you can watch Panorama: The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool on BBC iPlayer now, or on BBC Select if you are in the in the US. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is a BBC Long Form Audio production for BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.

The Abercrombie Guys’ alleged main recruiter is tracked-down to a small town in Wisconsin and asked about his involvement in the operation: “Nobody went into this without their eyes wide open.” One high profile American lawyer examines the team’s evidence and calls for prosecutors to investigate. Have you got a story to tell? Email rianna@bbc.com. Let us know what you think of the season using the hashtag #WorldofSecrets This podcast refers to sexual abuse and contains interviews that some listeners may find upsetting, as well as some occasional strong language. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is presented and investigated by Rianna Croxford Series Producers: Ruth Evans and Alys Harte Senior Producer: Emma Close Development Producer: Hannah Livingston Investigation Editor: Ed Campbell Podcast Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Executive Editor: Emma Rippon Studio Engineers: Neil Churchill, Andy Fell, Gareth Jones, and Ali Rezakhani Production Coordinators: Debbie Richford and Sophie Hill Commissioning Editor: Dylan Haskins Commissioning Executive: Louise Kattenhorn Assistant Commissioner: Natasha Johansson This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Panorama. If you are in the UK, you can watch Panorama: The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool on BBC iPlayer now, or on BBC Select if you are in the in the US. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is a BBC Long Form Audio production for BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.

A lawsuit is filed revealing new allegations, but what did Abercrombie and Fitch know? An anonymous source speaks about Mike Jeffries' time at A&F, but the company won't answer all our questions. Meanwhile, another staffer recalls his time working for The Abercrombie Guys: "I only worked for them for a year, and I hated every second of it." Have you got a story to tell? Email rianna@bbc.com. Let us know what you think of the season using the hashtag #WorldofSecrets This podcast refers to sexual abuse and contains interviews that some listeners may find upsetting, as well as some occasional strong language. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is presented and investigated by Rianna Croxford Series Producers: Ruth Evans and Alys Harte Senior Producer: Emma Close Development Producer: Hannah Livingston Investigation Editor: Ed Campbell Podcast Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Executive Editor: Emma Rippon Studio Engineers: Neil Churchill, Andy Fell, Gareth Jones, and Ali Rezakhani Production Coordinators: Debbie Richford and Sophie Hill Commissioning Editor: Dylan Haskins Commissioning Executive: Louise Kattenhorn Assistant Commissioner: Natasha Johansson This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Panorama. If you are in the UK, you can watch Panorama: The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool on BBC iPlayer now, or on BBC Select if you are in the in the US. World of Secrets: Season 1 - The Abercrombie Guys is a BBC Long Form Audio production for BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.

The FBI is investigating following allegations made in World of Secrets. The Abercrombie Guys vehemently deny wrongdoing and an old acquaintance comes to their defence, with a different side of the story. "Which one’s true? The audience will have to decide," he says. Meanwhile another man reports what happened when he went on a luxury cruise with Mike Jeffries and Matthew Smith - and says he faced the consequences of saying no to the former Abercrombie boss. #WorldofSecrets

"I thought I was gonna die." A man fears for his life after attending an Abercrombie Guys event. Mike Jeffries time as Abercrombie and Fitch CEO comes to an abrupt end, marking the end of an era. Meanwhile, in 2024 the allegations against him and Matthew Smith continue to mount. "The courtroom is where we will deal with this matter," say their lawyers. #worldofsecrets

"Anyone who thinks they can exploit others by using the so-called casting couch system... prepare to trade that couch for a bed in federal prison." Prosecutors in New York send a stern message, as The Abercrombie Guys, Mike Jeffries and Matthew Smith, are arrested on charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution, along with their alleged fixer Jim Jacobson. They've denied wrongdoing. Reporter Rianna and producer Ruth head to New York to watch the court proceedings unfold, just a stone's throw from Mike Jeffries' Hamptons mansion.

Updating you on Mike Jeffries' time in a prison hospital and the latest legal developments. What has been revealed in court, and when is the trial scheduled to take place? Host Rianna Croxford is joined by Business Insider’s Laura Italiano to dig into the details of Mike Jeffries’ time in a federal medical facility in North Carolina, the subsequent court hearings, and why it has taken nearly three years for a trial to be scheduled. What’s next for Mike Jeffries, Matthew Smith and Jim Jacobson as they remain under house arrest? World of Secrets: The Abercrombie Guys investigated sexual exploitation claims against the former CEO of fashion giant Abercrombie and Fitch. This episode contains strong language. Presenter: Rianna Croxford Producer: Ruth Evans Editor: Ed Campbell and Richard Fenton-Smith

Seven-year-old Khalil from the Philippines has cancer. His family hope making a campaign video might save him, because they desperately need help to pay for his treatment. But the shoot is demanding, exhausting. Khalil even has onions put in front of his eyes to make him cry. For his mother Aljin, it’s a last-ditch attempt to help her son. But despite following every demand made by a “foreign sponsor”, she’s told the video doesn’t make any money. Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Please note, the image is being used for illustrative purposes only and the child depicted is a model. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

As videos of other sick children pleading for money are found online, we find out more about the man behind the camera. And it becomes clear that there’s a complex network of organisations registered in Israel, the United States and Canada, exploiting families who just need help. Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

A woman called Isabel pushes a little girl to send videos from her hospital bed. It’s part of a recruitment drive for sick children in Colombia to take part in campaigns. What does she know about the hundreds of thousands of dollars that appear to have been raised? It’s money the family never saw. Who was she working for, and what can she tell us about this scam? Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

A mother from Ukraine signs a contract, hoping that it will help her young daughter. Viktoriia has a brain tumour: her story is plastered all over social media despite her family’s request that the video they made isn’t shared. Olena says she wasn’t given time to read the contract properly. When we look more closely, it makes for shocking reading. Now she knows the truth, she wants to stop the scammers, agreeing to help us go undercover. Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

The investigation into why millions of dollars promised to families with sick children never reaches them moves to Israel. There we find misleading addresses and more questions than answers. Who is making these online campaigns which claim to help desperate parents? New ones keep appearing, but the story’s the same. Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

After never receiving the money raised in their children’s name, mothers are finally confronting the scammers and demanding answers. Now is the time to ask why. Where is the money? Season 10 of World of Secrets, The Child Cancer Scam, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. World of Secrets will be back with gripping new investigations in 2026. Reporter and Presenter: Simi Jolaoso Additional reporting: Jack Goodman and Ned Davies Writer and Producer: Neil McCarthy and Rob Wilson Sound design: Andy Fell Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

US Special Agents Greg Squire and Pete Manning work together to track down people who sexually abuse children and share images of their abuse online. They thought they knew what they were dealing with but they’ve just discovered they have no idea. In a prison in Amsterdam they meet a prolific paedophile, Robert Micklesons, who reveals to them the vast online world created by paedophiles to share images and video of child sexual abuse. When they get back to the US they get an urgent call. A police officer in Denmark has found images of a girl in America who appears to have been sexually abused for six years. But no one has any idea where she is. Their job is to find her. But how will they do it? Season 11 of World of Secrets, The Darkest Web, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. This podcast includes some upsetting scenes, discussions of child sexual abuse, and there’s some strong language. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

US Special Agents Greg and Pete are desperate. Somewhere in America a twelve year old girl, who they have called Lucy, is being sexually abused. Her abuser has been sharing images of his abuse for six years on the dark web. They have to find her - and save her. They were convinced that Facebook would be able to help them using its facial recognition technology, but the tech giant is unable to help. So they go back to the start , examining every single thing they can see in the room she is being abused in: the sofa, the bed and then finally they wonder what they might discover if they look at the room itself, specifically the exposed brick wall. Is there any way someone could identify these bricks? And could that person help them to find Lucy? Season 11 of World of Secrets, The Darkest Web, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. This podcast includes some upsetting scenes, discussions of child sexual abuse, and there’s some strong language. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

US Special Agents Greg and Pete are desperate. Somewhere in America a twelve year old girl, who they have called Lucy, is being sexually abused. Her abuser has been sharing images of his abuse for six years on the dark web. They have to find her - and save her. They were convinced that Facebook would be able to help them using its facial recognition technology, but the tech giant is unable to help. So they go back to the start, examining every single thing they can see in the room she is being abused in: the sofa, the bed and then finally they wonder what they might discover if they look at the room itself, specifically the exposed brick wall. Is there any way someone could identify these bricks? And could that person help them to find Lucy? Season 11 of World of Secrets, The Darkest Web, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. This podcast includes some upsetting scenes, discussions of child sexual abuse, and there’s some strong language. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

After they rescue Lucy, Greg and Pete discover the dark web community is even bigger than they thought. There are hundreds of websites each sharing different images of different kinds of child sexual abuse. Overwhelmed by what they have found online and the sheer scale of the problem, Greg makes a decision to go undercover. He will go online on the dark web and talk to the paedophiles directly. They have to do everything they can to try to stop the abusers. This podcast includes some upsetting scenes and discussions of child sexual abuse. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

Pete and Greg have learnt about a paedophile calling himself “Twinkle”, who runs a website dedicated to sharing images of very young children. At first, they have no idea who he is or where he could be, but slowly Twinkle gives himself away. Working with investigators in Brazil and Portugal the agents discover that Twinkle is a young man living in rural Portugal. Greg flies out to assist with the arrest and discovers some very disturbing scenes. This episode talks about child sexual abuse from the very start, and includes some upsetting scenes. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel The Darkest Web is a BBC Eye production for the BBC World Service.

The time has come to arrest Alisa’s brother, Staton Grubert. Thirty armed agents commando crawl up a dirt track to his trailer in Texas. Staton has no idea that his time is up. Will Alisa finally get closure? And in a state in the South West, Greg is reunited with Lucy, the girl who had been abused for six years. This podcast includes some upsetting scenes and discussions of child sexual abuse. For further information on the issues raised in the programme, contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support go to bbc.co.uk/actionline. Reporter and Presenter: Sam Piranty Writer and Producer: Annabel Deas Script advice: Matt Willis Sound design: Neil Churchill Composer: Rob Lewis Executive Producer: Rebecca Henschke Commissioning Senior Producer: Sarah Green Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel The Darkest Web is a BBC Eye production for the BBC World Service.

Why don’t I have a father? Cathy is 10 years old when she starts asking questions. The secret her mum Maggie is forced to reveal changes everything. Years later, when lawyers and a geneticist turn up in their hometown in Kenya to take DNA samples, Maggie hopes they can help her finally learn the truth. Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Please note, the image being used is for illustrative purposes only and the child depicted is a model. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive producer: Matt Willis Commissioning senior producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

How did the hunt for an American serial killer inspire DNA detectives in Kenya? Growing up, Kenyan lawyer Kelvin Kubai admired the British soldiers stationed in Nanyuki. Now, he is on a mission to hold them accountable. Orphan Yvonne was told her dad died when she was a baby. She hopes to find relatives in the UK. But could she get much more? Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive producer: Matt Willis Commissioning senior producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

Cathy and Peter confront their demons. Their searches for their fathers take them to dark and desperate places. And back in London, it’s time to reveal the results of the DNA analysis, with life-changing consequences. This episode contains references to suicide and self-harm, which some listeners may find upsetting. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide. www.befrienders.org Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive producer: Matt Willis Commissioning senior producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

Lawyer James has an extraordinary breakthrough for teenage orphan Yvonne. Could her father be alive? Meanwhile, it’s time for the big day in court. Can the legal team convince the judge to confirm Cathy and Peter’s fathers? Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive producer: Matt Willis Commissioning senior producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

Cathy and Peter are now speaking with their dads. But are the new relationships all they hoped for? Lawyer James Netto has a “day in court like no other” when a father makes a shock appearance. And we travel to a barracks in the South of England to ask pressing questions of the British Army. Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive producer: Matt Willis Commissioning senior producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

What’s been happening in our investigation since the last episode? Tristan Redman talks to season host Ivana Davidovic and lawyer James Netto for the latest on Cathy, Peter and Yvonne, the Kenyans who are seeking relationships with their army dads. We also hear about the response from listeners to the series. Searching for Soldier Dad follows DNA detectives as they track down the British soldiers who fathered children in Kenya then disappeared. With access to every stage of this cutting-edge process, we followed a team of lawyers and a leading geneticist as they travelled to Kenya to help locate the British soldiers who fathered children then vanished, witnessing the groundbreaking legal and scientific detective work used to find the missing dads. Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service.

Deep friendships and memories are made at a boarding school among the rice paddies in Lombok, Indonesia. But the lesson they’re taught to remember most is: “We hear and we obey.” And the person they’re expected to obey is the founder and headmaster — the man they’re told to call “Abah”, or “Father”. But when Yusron, the school’s golden boy, gets in touch over instagram with Zia — a fellow former student — she reveals something that begins to unravel all that he believes in. This series of World of Secrets contains references to sexual abuse. Listen to the Indonesian language version of the podcast here: bbc.com/indonesia/podcasts/p0btnmzx Voice actors: Prilly Latuconsina, Omara Esteghlal, Paul Agusta Presenter: Rebecca Henschke Series producers: Endang Nurdin and Rebecca Henschke Sound recordings: Dwiki Marta Original music: Alffy Rev Sound design: Andy Fell Executive producer: Neil McCarthy Commissioning senior producers: Anne Dixey and Sarah Green Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

Yusron gets the permission he needs to start chasing the truth. Information begins flooding into the student detective WhatsApp group they set up. Memories from the alumni that now take on new significance and information from students still at their boarding school. They need to make sense of it but who can they trust with their evidence? This series of World of Secrets contains references to sexual abuse. Listen to the Indonesian language version of the podcast here: https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/podcasts/p0btnmzx Voice actors: Prilly Latuconsina, Omara Esteghlal, Adelina Lece-Bere, Paul Agusta. Presenter: Rebecca Henschke Series producers: Endang Nurdin and Rebecca Henschke Sound recordings: Dwiki Marta Original music: Alffy Rev Sound design: Andy Fell Executive producer: Neil McCarthy Commissioning senior producers: Anne Dixey and Sarah Green Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

The students' former headmaster — the man they revered and called “Father” — knows all about their undercover investigation into him. Evidence Zia submitted just weeks ago to the body that oversees their school, after they promised to help them get justice. Instead a cover up has begun. They will record it all, but can Yusron, Zia and Sukma withstand the pressure they are now under? This series of World of Secrets contains references to sexual abuse. Listen to the Indonesian language version of the podcast here: https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/podcasts/p0btnmzx Voice actors: Prilly Latuconsina, Omara Esteghlal, Adelina Lece-Bere, Paul Agusta. Presenter: Rebecca Henschke Series producers: Endang Nurdin and Rebecca Henschke Sound recordings: Dwiki Marta Original music: Alffy Rev Sound design: Andy Fell Executive producer: Neil McCarthy Commissioning senior producers: Anne Dixey and Sarah Green Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

It feels like Abah and the school has won. And they have lost. Yusron is torn between supporting Zia and the promise he made to his mum. But then they meet someone who knows exactly what they’re going through — because it happened to her. And now some crucial new information has come to light. This series of World of Secrets contains references to sexual abuse. Listen to the Indonesian language version of the podcast here: https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/podcasts/p0btnmzx Voice actors: Prilly Latuconsina, Omara Esteghlal, Adelina Lece-Bere, Kartika Jahja, Astudestra Ajengrastri. Presenter: Rebecca Henschke Series producers: Endang Nurdin and Rebecca Henschke Sound recordings: Dwiki Marta Original music: Alffy Rev Sound design: Andy Fell Executive producer: Neil McCarthy Commissioning senior producers: Anne Dixey and Sarah Green Commissioning editor: Jon Manel

Classmates and teachers at the school urge Sukma to withdraw her allegations. But she’s going to go undercover to demand answers from Abah. Meanwhile, after three long years of dating online, Zia and Yusron are finally meeting in Cairo —will they feel the same about each other in real life? And then Sukma goes home to tell an important person the truth. While Yusron and Zia have one more call to make. This series of World of Secrets contains references to sexual abuse. Listen to the Indonesian language version of the podcast here: https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/podcasts/p0btnmzx This audio was updated on 13th October 2026 to included a preview of the next World of Secrets season, Dr Skin. Voice actors: Prilly Latuconsina, Omara Esteghlal, Adelina Lece-Bere, Paul Agusta, Mian Tiara, Kartika Jahja and Astudestra Ajengrastri. Presenter: Rebecca Henschke Series producers: Endang Nurdin and Rebecca Henschke Sound recordings: Dwiki Marta Original music: Alffy Rev Sound design: Andy Fell Executive producer: Neil McCarthy Commissioning senior producers: Anne Dixey and Sarah Green Commissioning editor: Jon Manel Investigation executive producer: Adam Jessel Investigation editor: Michael Simkin Investigation executive editor: Liz Gibbons Special thanks to the BBC News Indonesia team.

Shots ring out at a church guarded by gunmen in Lagos, Nigeria. Behind the blacked-out windows and high walls are secrets. In a pub in Oxford, England, a woman comes to us with a story. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke investigate the cult of TB Joshua. Please note, some episodes in this season of World of Secrets contain graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. This episode also contains strong language. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Archive: The Synagogue Church of All Nations, Journeyman Pictures Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

The myths around Nigerian pastor TB Joshua draw young disciples into his web. His miracles go viral, bringing thousands more followers, hoping to be healed. Chosen ones, like Rae and Anneka, are invited to his Lagos church, with the coveted chance of becoming his disciples. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, some episodes in this season of World of Secrets contain graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Archive: The Synagogue Church of All Nations, Emmanuel TV, CBN News, Powered by Dunamis, Journeyman Pictures #WorldofSecrets Audio for this episode was updated on 8th January 2024 Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

TB Joshua’s new disciples Rae and Anneka leave behind their lives in England to follow the prophet, along with other young people from around the world. Isolated and sleep deprived, life is tough for the disciples but the only thing that matters to them is following Jesus – and TB Joshua is their passage. Outside of the closed compound in Lagos, Nigeria, people are noticing that something is wrong. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, some episodes in this season of World of Secrets contain graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Archive: The Synagogue Church of All Nations, Channel 4 Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

Namibian teenager Jessica gives up everything to join prophet TB Joshua in Lagos. She is taken to a special place, where the church was born, now transformed from a swamp into a lake, with islands and a helipad. As one of a privileged few, she sees strange rituals with swords, crosses and photographs. Back in the church compound, disciples are encouraged to call TB Joshua “Daddy”. Then, Anneka tries to escape. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, this season of World of Secrets contains graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

Anneka confronts TB Joshua. What really happened in his fifth-floor apartment at the top of the Lagos church compound? And can she escape his clutches? Anneka flees home to England but her ordeal isn’t over. TB Joshua sends one of his most trusted disciples to bring her back. “I knew she’d been sent to take me,” Anneka says. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, this season of World of Secrets contains graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. This episode includes descriptions of forced abortions. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

Healer or fraud? The truth about TB Joshua, whose miracles made him rich and famous. Videos show doctors testifying to his unexplainable ability to cure the sick. From restoring sight and the ability to walk, nothing seemed beyond the prophet’s power. But behind the miracles is a secret machine run by TB Joshua’s most trusted disciples. And some of them are turning whistleblowers. What was the human cost of these so-called miracles? Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, some episodes in this season of World of Secrets contain graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. This episode also includes very strong language. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Archive: The Synagogue Church of All Nations, Emmanuel TV, JesusSetsFree, mightymiracles, Sky News Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

A once loyal disciple and recruiter for TB Joshua speaks out. Bisola’s video emerges on the internet - she calls it Deception of the Age. For the prophet, it’s betrayal. He won’t let go and delves into his archive of confessions to try and discredit her. Other disciples are frightened, including Rae. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, this season of World of Secrets contains graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline If you are suffering distress and need support, details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org Archive: Emmanuel TV Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

People are trapped under rubble in the Lagos church compound. The eyes of the world are now on TB Joshua. Beneath the collapsed building is 23-year-old Princess, from South Africa. Her mother says she’s told: “just pray”. Disciple Emmanuel goes to the scene. “You could hear people, and their voices are fading. From louder, it’s getting weaker.” As suspicion about the cause of the collapse intensifies, Nigeria’s president, Goodluck Jonathan, flies in to offer his condolences to TB Joshua and the bereaved families. Meanwhile, the prophet gives a bizarre explanation. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, this season of World of Secrets contains graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline Archive: Channels TV, Associated Press, CGTN Africa, The Synagogue Church of All Nations, Emmanuel TV, TV360, MrBallu58 Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

The secret daughter of TB Joshua, who dared to rebel against her prophet father. Ajoke was born to a different mother than her sisters, and disciples have told us how she fought back against the prophet. Two years ago, we tracked her down but we weren’t able to use the recording – until now. She tells us her story. Hosts Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke unravel a story of miracles, faith and manipulation, carried out by one of the most powerful religious figures of the century. Please note, some episodes in this series of World of Secrets contain graphic descriptions of sexual and physical violence, including sexual assault, rape and the language associated with it. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this series, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline If you are suffering distress and need support, details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org Archive: SABC, Channels TV, Emmanuel TV Presenters: Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke Series Producer: Rob Byrne Series Editor: Philip Sellars Executive Producer: Georgia Catt Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel This podcast is made in collaboration with BBC Eye Investigations, with original investigation by Charlie Northcott and Helen Spooner.

Inside the investigation – the story of the journalism behind The Disciples. Hear from the journalists and the whistleblowers about the investigation into TB Joshua. A special episode with season 2 presenters Charlie Northcott and Yemisi Adegoke, producer Rob Byrne, and whistleblowers Rae and Ajoke. Hosted by Hannah Ajala, presenter of "Love, Janessa", and recorded in front of an audience at “World Service Presents” in London. Plus we hear from the presenter of the first season of World of Secrets, Rianna Croxford, about how she investigated allegations of sexual exploitation made against the former CEO of fashion giant Abercrombie and Fitch. Season 2 of World of Secrets is a story of miracles, faith and manipulation – the cult of Nigerian prophet, TB Joshua. Watch the Africa Eye TV documentaries about the investigation: https://bit.ly/BBCDisciples Content warning: This episode contains references to sexual, physical and psychological abuse. If you've been affected by any of the issues in this podcast, please contact support organisations in your own country. For a list of organisations in the UK that can provide support for survivors of sexual abuse, go to bbc.co.uk/actionline If you are suffering distress and need support, details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org

Four more seasons of World of Secrets will be released in 2024, starting with The Apartheid Killer. All the victims were black and the youngest was just 12 years old. Some relatives are still searching for the graves. During a three-year bloodbath in the 1980s, at least 39 people were killed in the South African city of East London – by one person. After years of investigation, we’ve tracked him down. It has been three decades since the white supremacist apartheid regime crumbled. The unresolved trauma of this time has cast a long shadow across a nation. In piecing together this story, the new season of World of Secrets will expose the disturbed past and racial injustices of South Africa itself.

Who was Edward and how did he die? His body is exhumed in East London, South Africa. His heartbroken family has waited decades to find out what happened to him. Edward Soenies wasn’t the only one killed in East London after dark in apartheid South Africa in the 1980s. We have spent years investigating. Hosts Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott begin to unravel what happened. They hear from investigative journalist, Isa Jacobsen and Edward’s sister and son, Marlene and Raymond. Since this episode was recorded, it has been announced that the “apartheid killer” Louis van Schoor died, on 25 July 2024. There will be more about this later in the series and you will hear interviews with him in future episodes. Please note, this season of World of Secrets includes descriptions about death and violence, including torture, which some listeners may find distressing. It also contains very strong language. The audio for this episode was updated on 19 August 2024 to remove an error about the South African army under apartheid. Season 3 of World of Secrets is a collaboration with the BBC World Service investigations unit, Africa Eye. Here’s a link to the BBC Africa Eye film, which we recommend you watch after listening to this podcast: https://youtu.be/QPB42_uLLh0 If you are in the UK, you can watch on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dvm Presenters: Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott Original investigation by Isa Jacobsen and Charlie Northcott Researcher: Maddy Drury Production coordinator: Katie Morrison Field production: Isa Jacobsen Mixing: James Beard Sound design: Jez Spencer Original music by Anna Papadimitriou Series Producer: Jim Frank Series Editor: Matt Willis Commissioning Senior Producer: Anne Dixey Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

Who killed Edward and so many others? His name was Louis van Schoor and we found him. Some people see one of South Africa’s most prolific mass killers as a hero. Would the “apartheid killer” admit to the multiple shootings and killings? Hosted by Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott. Since this episode was recorded, it has been announced that Louis van Schoor died, on 25 July 2024. There will be more about this later in the series. This was a four-year investigation and the interviews with Louis van Schoor were recorded in 2022 and 2023. Please note, this episode of World of Secrets includes descriptions of death and violence, which some listeners may find distressing. Season 3 of World of Secrets is a collaboration with the BBC World Service investigations unit, Africa Eye. Here’s a link to the BBC Africa Eye film, which we recommend you watch after listening to this podcast: https://youtu.be/QPB42_uLLh0 If you are in the UK, you can watch on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dvm Presenters: Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott Original investigation by Isa Jacobsen and Charlie Northcott Researcher: Maddy Drury Production coordinator: Katie Morrison Field production: Isa Jacobsen Mixing: James Beard Sound design: Jez Spencer Original music by Anna Papadimitriou Series Producer: Jim Frank Series Editor: Matt Willis Commissioning Senior Producer: Anne Dixey Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

The making of mass murderer Louis van Schoor. The “apartheid killer” was part of a system which enabled the shootings as “justifiable homicide”. As we investigate one of his most horrific crimes, we begin to expose the web of lies surrounding the killings and ask: how were they covered up? Since this episode was recorded, it has been announced that Louis van Schoor died, on 25 July 2024. There will be more about this later in the series. This was a four-year investigation and the interviews with Louis van Schoor were recorded in 2022 and 2023. Please note, this episode of World of Secrets includes descriptions of violence and torture, which some listeners may find distressing. Season 3 of World of Secrets is a collaboration with the BBC World Service investigations unit, Africa Eye. Here’s a link to the BBC Africa Eye film, which we recommend you watch after listening to this podcast: https://youtu.be/QPB42_uLLh0 If you are in the UK, you can watch on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dvm Presenters: Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott Original investigation by Isa Jacobsen and Charlie Northcott Researcher: Maddy Drury Production coordinator: Katie Morrison Field production: Isa Jacobsen Mixing: James Beard Sound design: Jez Spencer Original music by Anna Papadimitriou Series Producer: Jim Frank Series Editor: Matt Willis Commissioning Senior Producer: Anne Dixey Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

Can the reign of terror of Louis van Schoor be stopped? There was a state of emergency in South Africa and resistance to the apartheid regime had intensified. A coalition of activists had him in their sights. African National Congress supporters, lawyers and journalists were fighting to bring the apartheid system to an end and, in turn, bring mass murderer van Schoor to justice. Could they succeed? Since this episode was recorded, it has been announced that Louis van Schoor died, on 25 July 2024. There will be more about this later in the series. This was a four-year investigation and the interviews with Louis van Schoor were recorded in 2022 and 2023. Please note, this episode of World of Secrets includes descriptions of violence and torture, which some listeners may find distressing. Season 3 of World of Secrets is a collaboration with the BBC World Service investigations unit, Africa Eye. Here’s a link to the BBC Africa Eye film, which we recommend you watch after listening to this podcast: https://youtu.be/QPB42_uLLh0 If you are in the UK, you can watch on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dvm Presenters: Ayanda Charlie and Charlie Northcott Original investigation by Isa Jacobsen and Charlie Northcott Researcher: Maddy Drury Production coordinator: Katie Morrison Field production: Isa Jacobsen Mixing: James Beard Sound design: Jez Spencer Original music by Anna Papadimitriou Series Producer: Jim Frank Series Editor: Matt Willis Commissioning Senior Producer: Anne Dixey Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel