Hawks Arrest
By Mpho Moloi
The Hawks’ Newcastle Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, in collaboration with several law enforcement agencies, has arrested 24 foreign nationals for their alleged involvement in human trafficking and illegal SIM card manufacturing. The operation, carried out on Monday, 27 January 2025, resulted in the apprehension of 22 Malawian nationals and two Chinese nationals, identified as Zhang Shengatao and Liu Gou.
The arrests followed a tip-off received on 14 January 2025, indicating potential human trafficking activity at the Northern Truck Stop in Newcastle. Acting on this intelligence, the investigative team obtained a search warrant from the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court and launched a coordinated raid on the premises.
Joint Operation and Key Arrests
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the following agencies:
• Newcastle Local Criminal Record Centre
• Illicit Mining Unit
• DFI KZN
• Immigration Office
During the raid, law enforcement officers discovered that the suspects were allegedly engaged in the illegal manufacturing of SIM cards, violating the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act (RICA). All 24 suspects were also found to be in contravention of the Immigration Act.
According to Major General Dr. Lesetja Senona, the Provincial Head of the KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the success of the operation was a testament to the effective collaboration between various agencies in combating organized crime.
“We appreciate the swift response and cooperation of all units involved. This case highlights the importance of intelligence-driven investigations in tackling serious criminal activities in our country.”How the Investigation Unfolded
The investigation began after authorities received credible information about possible human trafficking at the Northern Truck Stop in Newcastle. The area has long been under scrutiny for alleged criminal syndicate activities, including smuggling, illicit trade, and organised crime networks.
Following preliminary surveillance, investigators determined that the site was being used for illicit SIM card manufacturing, possibly linked to fraudulent activities such as identity theft, cybercrime, and mobile banking scams.
The Hawks, working alongside the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court, secured a search warrant to enter and inspect the premises.
“We acted swiftly upon receiving intelligence that raised serious concerns about illegal activities, including human trafficking. This operation was conducted to prevent further criminal activities and protect potential victims.” – Hawks SpokespersonDetails of the Arrests
When the law enforcement team raided the site, they discovered 22 Malawian nationals and two Chinese suspects in the facility. Upon further investigation, authorities found:
• SIM card manufacturing equipment
• Dozens of pre-activated SIM cards
• Forgery tools for identity document manipulation
• Unregistered mobile phones and laptops used for illegal operations
The suspects were immediately taken into custody, and all electronic devices and materials were seized as evidence.
Court Proceedings and Bail Applications
Following the arrests, the two Chinese nationals, Zhang Shengatao and Liu Gou, appeared before the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 29 January 2025, for charges related to the RICA Act.
The case was postponed to 6 February 2025, allowing authorities time to gather further evidence and conduct in-depth investigations into the extent of the operation. Formal bail applications are expected to be heard at the next court session.
“These arrests are just the beginning of a larger investigation. We are probing possible links to transnational crime networks and expect further developments in the case.” – Senior Investigating OfficerPotential Links to Cross-Border Crime Networks
The involvement of foreign nationals in illegal SIM card manufacturing raises concerns about cross-border criminal syndicates operating in South Africa, Malawi, and China. Authorities believe that the fraudulent SIM cards produced by the suspects may have been used for various illicit activities, including:
• Mobile banking fraud and identity theft
• Unregistered communication lines for organised crime syndicates
• Facilitation of cybercrime activities
• Human trafficking and exploitation
Investigators are now working to determine the exact purpose of the illegally manufactured SIM cards and whether they were part of a larger criminal enterprise.
“South Africa has become a hotspot for cybercrime and financial fraud linked to illegal SIM card operations. This case underscores the need for stricter enforcement of telecommunications laws and regulations.” – Cybercrime ExpertLaw Enforcement’s Response and Crime Prevention Measures
With illegal SIM card fraud and identity theft on the rise, SAPS, the Hawks, and the Department of Home Affairs have vowed to tighten security measures and increase oversight of SIM card registration processes.
To prevent similar operations, authorities plan to:
✅ Conduct more surprise raids on suspected illegal SIM card manufacturers
✅ Strengthen RICA enforcement, ensuring strict SIM card registration procedures
✅ Enhance intelligence sharing between South Africa, Malawi, and China
✅ Increase border security measures to curb cross-border syndicates
KwaZulu-Natal law enforcement officials have assured the public that further arrests may be imminent, as investigations continue to identify other individuals linked to this criminal operation.
The Role of Public Awareness and Reporting Suspicious Activities
The Hawks credited community members and whistleblowers for providing key information that led to the successful operation. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to:
• Human trafficking
• Illegal SIM card operations
• Cybercrime and fraud
Community tip-offs can play a crucial role in preventing organised crime, and members of the public are encouraged to report illegal activities to:
📞 Crime Stop Hotline: 08600 10111
📧 SAPS Online Reporting Portal
“The public is our greatest ally in fighting organised crime. Any information, no matter how small, could prevent major criminal activities.” – Major General Dr. Lesetja SenonaWhat Happens Next?
• 6 February 2025: Zhang Shengatao and Liu Gou to appear in court for bail application
• Further investigations into the financial and digital records seized during the raid
• Possible additional arrests as the Hawks probe further links to crime syndicates
KwaZulu-Natal authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to combating transnational crime, ensuring that criminal networks exploiting South Africa’s telecommunications system are dismantled.
Key Takeaways from the Newcastle Operation
✔ 24 foreign nationals arrested in connection with human trafficking and illegal SIM card operations
✔ Two Chinese nationals face RICA Act charges, with their court case postponed to 6 February 2025
✔ Authorities seized illegal SIM card manufacturing equipment and pre-activated SIM cards
✔ Law enforcement agencies working to dismantle transnational crime networks
✔ Public urged to report suspicious activities to assist ongoing investigations
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube