Norkem Park SAPS, in partnership with a local service provider and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), recently addressed a signal interference issue in Birchleigh that frustrated several residents with poor Wi-Fi reception.
According to Warrant Officer Barbara-Anne Ferreira-Dookie, investigations led authorities to a residence where a 5G tri-band cellphone booster was disrupting local network signals, effectively blocking Wi-Fi connectivity in the area.
“The service provider technical team identified a signal-jamming device, referred to as a cellphone booster.
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“With the support of ICASA officials and the full cooperation of the individual who had unknowingly installed the device, the police confiscated the booster,” said Ferreira-Dookie.
She explained the incident highlights the growing concern about using unlicensed electronic communication devices, particularly those purchased online.
“We want to educate the public on the risks of buying signal-enhancing devices that are not ICASA-approved,” Ferreira-Dookie added.
“Unregistered boosters can interfere with cellular towers, disrupt communication services for others, and result in legal action.”
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Ferreira-Dookie urged residents to check that any electronic device, especially those marketed to boost Wi-Fi or mobile signals, is legally certified and compliant with South African regulations.
The SAPS and ICASA continue to monitor similar cases and encourage residents to report unusual disruptions to their service providers for further investigation.
