A sophisticated SIM card fraud operation valued at R650,000 has been uncovered in Mayfair, Johannesburg, leading to the arrest of a 27-year-old Kenyan national.
The Hawks seized multiple manufacturing devices and thousands of fraudulent SIM cards, marking a significant blow to telecommunications fraud.
The arrest was made on January 29, following an intelligence-driven operation by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) unit based in Johannesburg.
The operation was launched after critical information revealed that a suspect from Kenya was involved in illegal activities.
"Hassan was found near Church Street in Mayfair, in possession of two sim card manufacturing equipment and thousands of sim cards from various mobile networks," said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha.
A subsequent search of Hassan’s residence in Mayfair uncovered even more incriminating evidence.
Law enforcement officials discovered two additional SIM card manufacturing machines, a desktop computer, and a large stash of SIM cards.
"Total value of the seized equipment is estimated to be valued at approximately R650,000," said Ramovha.
Hassan was charged with cyber-related forgery and contravention of several laws, including the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communications-Related Information Act (RICA), the Electronic Communications and Transactions (ECT) Act, and the Immigration Act.
Ramovha said that Hassan made his first appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on January 31.
The case has been postponed to February 7 for verification of his immigration status.
Acting Provincial Head of the DPCI in Gauteng Brigadier Wendy Mashwabane emphasized the importance of the arrest.
“This operation serves as a clear message that cybercrime and illegal activities will be met with swift and decisive action. We are dedicated to eradicating criminal activities that threaten the integrity of our communication networks and the well-being of our communities,” said Mashwabane.
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