MultiChoice Group and its technology security subsidiary Irdeto have succeeded in nailing a pirate internet streaming service with the help of Western Cape police investigators.
In a statement on Wednesday, MultiChoice described the dismantling of the pirate steaming operation, called Waka TV, as “a significant victory in the fight against internet streaming piracy”.
The broadcaster said it was involved in a “meticulously planned raid” on 31 May, which led to the arrest of a “key suspect involved in one of the most extensive pirate operations in Africa”.
“This operation represents a major milestone in our relentless commitment to protecting MultiChoice Group’s content and the integrity of our broadcasting services,” it said.
It added that Irdeto made a “substantial investment” to investigate and identify the main suspect involved in the piracy network.
“The suspect, who is believed to have managed several pirate customers and resellers, was detained,” it said, adding that Waka TV “illegally distributed live TV channels, including several DStv channels, movies and series. The disruption caused by this raid is a significant blow to the illegal streaming industry in Africa.
“MultiChoice is working actively with the police as investigations continue into the thousands of individuals connected to the Waka TV pirate network. Resellers supporting the pirate operation are also under investigation. This collaborative effort aims to dismantle the entire network and bring all perpetrators to justice.”
It said the arrested suspect – it did not name the individual – appeared in court on 3 June and is facing charges of fraud and contravention of sections 2 to 8 of the Cybercrime Act. “Additional charges are being considered in consultation with the senior public prosecutor.”
The broadcaster said the police’s Cybercrime Unit will thoroughly analyse all the equipment seized during the raid. “This comprehensive analysis is expected to provide additional insights into the extent of the pirate network, and more arrests are imminent,” it said.
“MultiChoice Group would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Cybercrime Unit and the Western Cape provincial commercial crime investigation unit for their outstanding support and professionalism throughout this operation. Their efforts have been crucial in achieving this significant breakthrough.”
