The illegal distribution of unclassified films and games not only cripples the creative sector economy, it also cripples the development of children who could potentially be exposed to this unclassified content. Over the past years, the Film and Publication Board’s (FPB) Compliance Monitoring team, with the assistance of the South African Police (SAPS) and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), conducted raids to confiscate illegal discs and ensured closure of unlawful distributors (including street vendors).

On 23 September 2020, the FPB will be destructing approximately 1 625 illegal DVDs and CDs with a street value estimated at R162 500. The discs earmarked for destruction are from evidence confiscated during raids and submitted during concluded court cases. Following a raid of illegal discs, the LEAs and SAPS assist the FPB in opening criminal cases and prosecuting these unlawful distributors.

“With FPB’s primary task being the protection of children from harmful content, the destruction process takes this confiscated material out of the equation completely, preventing it from finding its way back to the streets and onto the viewing list of children. Some of the material was unclassified, making it illegal under the Films and Publications Act,” says Ms Abongile Mashele, FPB’s Acting Chief Executive Officer.

“Furthermore, black market goods pose a major threat to the economy of the country by putting pressure on the viability of legal suppliers of goods. Often seized discs contain pornographic material. Selling their unclassified goods openly at taxi ranks and, on the streets, illegal distributors could end up exposing children prematurely to adult content,” she adds.

She continues to say: “Pirate traders steal intellectual property; they steal revenue by depriving content creators of their royalties. Legal distributors lose their livelihood.”

The Films and Publications Act 65 of 1996, (amended), prohibits the distribution of uncategorised (unclassified) films and games. The Act requires the classification ratings to be clearly and conspicuously displayed. Failure to do this could lead to imprisonment of up to 6 months, a fine or both.

The FPB values partnerships with various stakeholders in the industry, as well as the general public, to protect our children from viewing potentially harmful, disturbing or inappropriate material. Should anyone have information about the illicit distribution of unclassified discs, they are welcome to contact the FPB on 0800 000 555 or clientsupport@fpb.org.za.