The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit has recovered over 4,000 suspected stolen SIM cards and arrested four individuals following a routine patrol.
On Tuesday, 07 October 2025, at approximately 8:00 PM, JMPD officers were conducting patrols on the M1 South near the Xavier Street off-ramp when they spotted a white BMW 1 Series travelling without number plates. The officers stopped the vehicle, which was occupied by four men, all of whom were between the ages of 29 and 30.
During a search, officers found a plastic bag containing more than 4,000 suspected stolen MTN SIM cards. They also discovered a device believed to be either a signal jammer or a SIM card registration machine. Further investigation revealed the vehicle was using a fraudulent temporary permit that was not registered in the system.
The four suspects were detained, and a case has been opened with the South African Police Service (SAPS). All recovered items, including the SIM cards and the device, were handed over to the Booysens SAPS for evidence. The vehicle was seized and booked in at the SAPS Lenasia vehicle pound for further verification.
This successful interception demonstrates the ongoing commitment of our officers to combat criminal activities and safeguard the integrity of communication networks within the City.
Issued by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Communication Unit
