Major Bust In Sandton: Police Shutdown Counterfeit SIM Card Operation

In a significant breakthrough, the Gauteng Organised Crime Investigation Unit has arrested more than 40 suspected illegal immigrants and 2 South Africans, following the discovery of a counterfeit SIM card manufacturing operation in Sandton.

Counterfeit SIM cards can be used for a variety of illicit activities, including fraud, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
By shutting down this operation, the police have potentially averted numerous future crimes.
The operation showcases the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the importance of cross-departmental cooperation in tackling complex crime networks.
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The South African Police Service (SAPS) action stemmed from a tip-off about suspicious activities taking place at a house in Sandton. Acting on this information, members of the Gauteng Organised Crime Investigation Unit swiftly operationalised the intelligence and raided the premises. Upon their arrival, they discovered over 40 individuals, suspected illegal immigrants, ranging in age from 17 to 36 years, occupying the property.

A thorough search of the house revealed a garage and a backroom brimming with thousands of SIM cards from all South African mobile networks. Alongside the SIM cards, a substantial number of computers were discovered, believed to be instrumental in the production of these counterfeit items.

The computer lab believed to be instrumental in the production of counterfeit SIM cards. Image: South African Police Service (SAPS)

To verify the authenticity of the discovered SIM cards, technicians from various mobile networks were summoned to the scene. Their evaluations confirmed that the SIM cards were indeed counterfeit, underscoring the serious nature of the operation.

The police arrested a total of 43 suspected illegal immigrants and 2 South African nationals. The charges laid against them are severe, reflecting the gravity of their alleged crimes. They include:
• Contravention of the Cyber Crime Act
• Fraud
• Violations related to illegal immigration

While this raid has resulted in a significant number of arrests, the investigation is far from over. The SAPS have indicated that more suspects may be apprehended as the inquiry continues. The goal is to dismantle the entire network behind this operation and identifying any additional actors involved.

SIM — This operation, which has cast a spotlight on the intricate network of cybercrime in the region, underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement to clamp down on illicit activities. Image: South African Police Service (SAPS)

The recent raid in Sandton by the Gauteng Organised Crime Investigation Unit marks a major victory in the fight against cybercrime and fraud in South Africa. The discovery and shutdown of a large-scale counterfeit SIM card operation not only disrupts a significant criminal network but also sends a strong message about the capabilities and resolve of law enforcement agencies.

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