Police arrest girlfriend of Midrand child pornography suspect

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Police in Gauteng have arrested the girlfriend of Midrand child pornography suspect in Houghton on Thursday following intensive investigation.

The 25-year-old woman, who is a web designer by profession, is facing charges of possession of child pornography and money laundering.

This arrest follows the takedown of her 35-year-old boyfriend, who was apprehended last week during a joint operation conducted by the national and provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) Units.

“An intensive investigation by the SECI Units uncovered evidence linking the woman to criminal activities, including the possession of an estimated 10 million child pornography images and videos.

“These materials were discovered on various electronic devices seized during an operation on Friday. Investigations into the matter are ongoing,” said Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk.

The suspect is set to appear before the Randburg magistrates’ court on Monday.

Meanwhile, three suspects were arrested following a high-speed chase and a shootout with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit on Thursday, in Turffontein.

The department spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla, said whilst conducting crime prevention patrols, officers observed a blue Hyundai Accent driving at high speeds.

He added that upon attempting to stop the vehicle, the driver disregarded the officers’ signals and fled the scene, endangering other motorists and a pursuit ensued, during which the suspects fired shots at the pursuing officers.

“The suspects continued their reckless driving, where they collided with a maroon Renault Kwid at the intersection of Kliprivier Drive and Turf Club Road. Despite this collision, the suspects persisted in their attempt to evade arrest.

“The pursuit finally concluded at the corner of Garden Road and Turf Club Road, where the suspects were apprehended.

“A subsequent investigation revealed that the suspects were wanted in connection with a robbery in the Ridgeway area, where they allegedly stole a cellphone from a schoolchild,” he explained.

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Furthermore, Fihla revealed that the vehicle was identified as being sought in connection with a series of robberies in the Mondeor area.

He added; “All three suspects were arrested and detained at Booysens police station. They are scheduled to appear in court soon.

“We commend the bravery and professionalism of the TRU officers involved in this successful operation. This incident underscores the JMPD’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Johannesburg.”