…arrest of the trio brings reward apprehensions to seven since November 2023
Puseletso Sekese
Western Cape, 23 January 2024 – A significant joint operation between the South African Police Services (Saps) and the USA Department of Homeland Security has led to the arrest of three more men involved in online child sexual exploitation in the Westend Cape. This development is part of an ongoing international effort against the creation, distribution and consumption of child pornography.
According to SAPS, the latest arrests in Worcester, Kraaifontein and Mitchell’s Plain contribute to seven total apprehensions since November, reflecting a steadfast commitment to combating these heinous crimes.
…shock as arrest of 53-year-old man leads to recovery of 95 000 child pornography images
SAPS reported the first of these arrests as a 53-year-old man from Worcester, detained on 17 January 2024, the suspect was found in possession of 95,000 images and 6,000 videos of child pornography. He faces charges related to accessing, distributing and possessing child pornography.
Second arrest led to 149 000 pornographic pictures, 5 000 pictures, firearms and nine snakes.
The second individual, arrested in Kraaifontein on 18 January, a 40-year-old man who held over 149,000 pictures and 5,000 videos of child pornography, alongside two unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as nine snakes, three without permits. His charges include illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, in addition to child pornography offenses.
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Meanwhile, a 32-year-old man from Mitchell’s Plain being the last suspect was arrested on 19 January, for engaging in inappropriate chat groups with underage girls.
All suspects have been presented to various magistrate courts, including Worcester, Kraaifontein, and Mitchell’s Plain, where their cases have been postponed for further investigation.
SAPS acknowledges the critical role of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of WC, NPA, Cape Nature, and SPCA in the success of these operations.
SAPS’s safety tips to arrest similar vices:
Monitor Devices and Accounts: SAPS advises parents to closely monitor their children’s devices and social media accounts.
Install Parental Control Software: Utilize software to block harmful online content, as recommended by SAPS.
Teach Children Online Safety: SAPS urges educating children about not responding to strangers and h personal information online.
Image Caution: SAPS advises against the uploading of suggestive images and sharing personal details on the internet.
Avoid Meetings with Strangers: Children should not meet strangers in private, and report any uncomfortable situations, as guided by SAPS.
For further media inquiries, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe of SAPS can be contacted at 0820408808.
