From Actor to Online Predator: Durban Actor Arrested in Global Child Porn Ring Bust, Bail Denied
In a surprising turn of events, a Durban actor was arrested in an international crackdown on online predators. The actor has been denied bail.
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Durban Actor Arrested in International Child Porn Ring Investigation Denied Bail
According to National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, the 58-year-old actor appeared in the Durban magistrate’s court on Friday as part of a joint operation between SAPS’ serial and electronic crime investigations unit and the US Department of Homeland Security. This operation has led to the arrest of 13 individuals thus far.
The actor was apprehended at his residence in Glenwood last Tuesday, where police reportedly discovered disturbing images and chat records detailing arrangements for sexual activities involving boys in exchange for payment of R2,500, with discussions even mentioning drugging the victims.
Police Action Uncovers More Crimes
The court proceedings were held in camera to facilitate ongoing police investigations, and the case has been postponed until June 3.
In a related arrest on April 24, police detained a 62-year-old man and seized numerous child pornography images and videos from his possession, including material depicting the sexual abuse of children.
During the operation, social services intervened to remove children aged six and four months from the same property.
Witnesses reported a prolonged police presence at the actor’s flat, lasting over an hour before the arrest was made.
Previously, the SAPS confirmed that 27 individuals had been identified in South Africa as part of a joint investigation with the US Department of Homeland Security, resulting in separate arrests across the country.