DailySun
Midrand – A recent police operation at a residence has revealed millions of child pornography images and videos, leading to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect.
The accused faces several charges, including possession, accessing, downloading, and distributing child pornography, along with drug possession and fraud.
In detailing the events surrounding the arrest, police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk indicated that the South African Police Service (SAPS) carried out a takedown operation in Midrand on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Major General Mmantsheke Lekhele, who heads the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit, led the team that executed the search warrant.
The operational unit also comprised investigators from the national and Gauteng provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations teams.
“During the operation, a number of electronic devices believed to contain child sexual abuse material were seized,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk.
“Cybercrime experts conducted an on-site forensic analysis, uncovering an estimated 10 million child pornography images and videos up to this point.”
“Moreover, a significant quantity of cash, suspected to be linked to criminal activities, was confiscated.”
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk noted that the arrest was made possible through intelligence provided by international law enforcement agencies, which pinpointed a suspect in South Africa.
“Subsequent investigations by the SECI teams revealed that the individual was engaged in hosting and distributing child pornography globally for financial gain,” Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk added.
“The suspect is expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court next week as the investigation continues. His identity will remain undisclosed until he formally enters a plea in court.”
“This operation signifies another success, following several recent arrests by SECI teams.”
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk remarked that over the last two years, law enforcement has apprehended 21 individuals on child pornography charges across the country.
“In December 2024, a 41-year-old former school principal in Pretoria and a 49-year-old individual in Vanderbijlpark were arrested during connected operations.”
