Midrand man arrested for possession, distribution of child porn due in court
The 35-year-old suspect was arrested last week during a takedown operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
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JOHANNESBURG - A Midrand man accused of hosting and distributing child pornography on a global scale is expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrates Court on Monday.
The 35-year-old suspect was arrested last week during a takedown operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Police said they discovered an estimated 10 million images and videos of child sexual abuse material on electronic devices, seized during a raid at his Midrand home.
Cash believed to be the proceeds of crime was also recovered.
The arrest was carried out by a team from the serial and electronic crime investigations unit.
Police have been pursuing similar cases nationwide, with 21 suspects arrested for child pornography-related offences over the past two years.
In December 2024 alone, a former school principal in Pretoria and a man from Vanderbijlpark were arrested in similar operations.
The suspect in this case faces multiple charges, including possession and distribution of child pornography, drug possession and fraud.
Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk: “The arrest emanates from information that was shared by international law enforcement with the saps after they have identified a target located in South Africa. Further investigation by the teams revealed that the suspect is hosting and distributing child pornography on a global scale for financial gain.”
He remains in custody as the investigation continues.