Seven UK police forces are currently investigating the alleged involvement of the late Edward Heath (Prime Minister 1970–1974) in a child abuse ring with Operation Midland investigating specifically the alleged murder of three boys.

The presentation raises international awareness of the investigation, sheds light on the suspected ‘Satanist’ ideology behind the cult and explores the implications for professional practice.

The paper highlights the corrosive impact on society of powerful pedophile rings that are protected by compromised authority representatives and professionals.

Detailed accounts circulate on the Internet that name dozens of individuals allegedly active in the cult including high-ranking politicians, psychiatrists, psychologist, police officers as well as journalists and academics. Some of the alleged crimes can be corroborated with news reports or successful court prosecutions while the vast majority appear to be ‘known crimes’ that are successfully covered up.

The widespread organisational structures parallel the Marc Dutroux case in Belgium. It appears to be the case that compromised mental health professionals and authority representatives shield the cult. It becomes an ethical obligation for the silent majority to speak out against such criminality and demand from their government effective investigation and prosecution.

Whilst an enquiry into historical allegations of institutional abuse is currently underway in the UK several cases emerged recently where satanic cults seemingly continue to be protected by the vested interests. Mental health professionals must stand up for victims and resist ill-conceived authority attempts to persecute abuse survivors and their supporters.

The author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.