In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Gauteng Organised Crime Investigation Unit has made a significant breakthrough, busting a large-scale counterfeit Sim card factory in Sandton and arresting 43 suspects.

The joint operation, carried out on Friday, was sparked by intelligence received about criminal activity at a residence in the affluent suburb. A team of officers from the unit and SAPS descended on the property in response to the tip-off.

Upon arrival, the authorities found 43 individuals, aged between 17 and 36, allegedly involved in the illegal production and distribution of counterfeit Sim cards. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody for questioning.

The search of the premises revealed a garage and backroom filled with thousands of counterfeit Sim cards from all major South African mobile networks. Investigators also discovered numerous computers, printers, and other equipment used to manufacture the fake cards.

Preliminary investigations suggest that all the cards were manufactured on-site, using advanced technology to replicate the cards of legitimate networks. The counterfeiters are believed to be selling the fake cards to unsuspecting customers, and would then use the customer’s Sim to make calls, send text messages, and access mobile data without being detected.

Two South Africans are facing charges of contravening the Cyber Crime Act 19 of 2020, fraud, and illegal immigration. The remaining 41 suspects are believed to be illegal immigrants who are reportedly in South Africa illegally. They are facing deportation proceedings.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, who led the investigation, expressed relief at the success of the operation. “This is a significant victory for law enforcement in our efforts to combat cybercrime and protect South African consumers. We will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt and dismantle these types of criminal operations, which undermine our country’s economy and pose a threat to national security.”

Further arrests are pending as the investigation continues. Anyone with information about this or any other criminal activity is urged to contact Masondo on 071 608 5490.