Authorities in Lenasia, Johannesburg, have seized hundreds of illegal streaming devices valued at approximately $29,000 (R546,000) in a coordinated anti-piracy operation involving the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, and MultiChoice.
The confiscated equipment included Android TV boxes preloaded with pirated content from MultiChoice and other global streaming platforms, alongside remotes, cables, USB sticks, a laptop, and a cellphone.
The raid marks one of South Africa’s largest anti-piracy enforcement actions this year, underscoring renewed efforts to curb illegal digital content distribution.
Hawks Crack Down on Digital Piracy
The Hawks, a specialized police division that handles serious crimes including cybercrime and organized fraud, led the operation.
Investigators revealed that the suspect had been under surveillance since July 2025 for allegedly selling preloaded illegal streaming devices that enabled users to access premium TV channels, movies, and live sports without valid subscriptions.
The suspect has been arrested under South Africa’s Cybercrimes Act, which criminalizes the unauthorized distribution or sale of digital content. He appeared before the Soweto Magistrate’s Court, where the case was postponed pending further forensic examination of the seized equipment.
Authorities stated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Illegal Streaming: A Threat to the Entertainment Industry
Piracy remains a growing challenge in South Africa’s entertainment and technology sectors, costing broadcasters and creators millions in lost revenue.
Tobias Maja, Senior Africa Piracy Manager at Irdeto, MultiChoice’s cybersecurity arm, condemned the act, saying:
“Piracy robs legitimate broadcasters and creators of revenue, endangering jobs and stunting growth.”
He added that beyond financial losses, illegal streaming devices pose significant risks to users, as many come with malicious software capable of stealing personal data, tracking user behavior, or installing viruses on connected devices.
Cybersecurity and Consumer Protection
Cybersecurity experts warn that users who purchase or use illegal streaming devices could expose themselves to identity theft, financial fraud, or cyberattacks.
Authorities have urged consumers to avoid unverified streaming platforms and purchase only licensed devices and subscriptions to protect both personal data and the broader creative industry.
MultiChoice reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with law enforcement and technology partners to combat digital piracy across Africa, ensuring that consumers enjoy safe, high-quality, and legal access to entertainment content.
Conclusion
The Lenasia raid serves as a strong message that South African authorities are intensifying their crackdown on digital piracy and enforcing cybercrime laws more stringently.
As the digital entertainment market continues to expand, regulators and broadcasters are calling for greater consumer awareness and industry-wide cooperation to protect intellectual property and support local creative economies.
