Coordinated operation leads to major illegal streaming device seizure in Lenasia
A recent joint operation that took place on 5 November has resulted in the successful seizure of hundreds of illegal streaming devices valued at more than R500,000 in Lenasia.
The operation was led by the Johannesburg DPCI Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit: Intellectual Property Group, in collaboration with members of the Protea LCRC, Crime Intelligence, and a MultiChoice brand holder representative.
The suspect was identified from July 2025 regarding his involvement of selling loaded Android TV boxes with MultiChoice and other streaming services content.
The Search and Seizure Warrant was immediately executed, resulting in the confiscation of items, including Android TV boxes, remote controls, cables, USB sticks, a laptop, and a cellphone.
All evidence documented and booked, with an estimated combined value of R546,000.00.
During the operation the suspect was arrested for contravening various sections of the Cybercrimes Act (Act 19 of 2020).
Additional charges are under consideration after analysis of all ceased evidence.
This operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement and private sector partners to protect intellectual property rights, support the creative industry, and clamp down on the illegal distribution of streaming devices across South Africa.
“We have continuously emphasized how piracy harms local content creators, broadcasters, and the wider creative economy,” said Tobias Maja, Senior Africa Piracy Manager at Irdeto.
“This is something we are aggressively fighting against to protect the industry at large.”
“Through close collaboration with SAPS and the Intellectual Property Group, we are making steady progress in disrupting the networks that enable online content theft.”
Through stronger enforcement partnerships and public education, the Partners Against Piracy initiative is intensifying its fight against content theft to protect jobs and sustain the growth of Africa’s creative and sports sectors.
