African media giant MultiChoice reported a legal victory against digital piracy, as the Germiston Regional Court (South Africa) found Vuyisile Victor Selem guilty on all charges in case 285/12/2023; and sentenced him to either a R10,000 fine or 12 months of direct imprisonment.
The charges included contravention of South Africa’s Cybercrime Act 19 of 2022 and fraud, and forms part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal IPTV service known as Waka TV, a pirate operation distributing unauthorised streaming access to premium pay television content.
Authorities conducted multiple raids against Waka TV and made several arrests over the course of 2024, during which it was determined that its operators had engaged in money laundering, theft, fraud and the sale of illicit streaming devices.
The verdict follows a targeted raid conducted in Germiston, where Selem was apprehended assisting an undercover informant with the installation of an illegal IPTV box. Subsequent investigations revealed his role as a reseller for Waka TV, with further incriminating items seized at the scene, including:
- An unapproved internet streaming pirate device,
- Promotional banners advertising access to DStv Premium channels,
- A mobile phone containing details of approximately 90 paying customers.
All evidence was documented and submitted for forensic analysis, and additional suspects linked to Waka TV are currently under investigation.
The successful operation was the result of a coordinated effort between the Germiston SAPS Tracing Team, Germiston SAPS Detectives, and Irdeto Anti-Piracy investigators. Further raids and legal actions against individuals affiliated with the Waka TV pirate operation are expected in the coming months.
Press release
Verdict reached in Germiston cybercrime case. Press release. April 29, 2025. MultiChoice Group.
Why it matters
This ruling stresses the serious consequences of engaging in digital piracy and marks a strong precedent in South Africa’s fight against cybercrime.
“This verdict is a good indication that the courts are getting tougher on those who commit crimes involving the illegal use of MultiChoice content,” said Frikkie Jonker, Director of Cyber Security and Broadcasting Piracy at Irdeto, the enforcement partner for MultiChoice Group. “It sends a clear message that piracy will not be tolerated. We commend the South African Police Service for their professionalism and their continued support in fighting the fight against broadcasting piracy.”
MultiChoice urges the public to report any suspected illegal activities (multichoice@piracy.co.za)
