Johannesburg – The Randburg Regional Court has postponed the case of 35-year-old Darren Wilken, who was arrested after police swooped on his Midrand residence and found millions of pictures and videos of child abuse.
The 35-year-old was arrested after a police raid in Midrand on 17 January 2025.
Wilken faces multiple charges, including possession, creation, and distribution of child pornography, the Contravention of the Drug Trafficking Act, acquisition, possession/use of the proceeds of unlawful activities, possession of stolen property, and fraud.
The arrest emanated from information that was shared by international law enforcement with the South African Police Services after they had identified a target located in South Africa.
During the court proceedings on Monday, (20 January 2025), the state alleged that a substantial amount of cash believed to be proceeds from the illicit activities, was seized during the arrest.
Furthermore, the state alleged that an investigation by the Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations teams uncovered evidence that the suspect was allegedly hosting and distributing child pornography worldwide for financial gain.
The police also seized electronic devices allegedly used by the accused in creating and distributing child pornography as well as countless images and videos of child pornography.
“The state requested a seven-day postponement from the court for the investigating officer to conduct further investigations into allegations of money laundering and to prepare for the formal bail application process,” explained National Prosecuting Authority Gauteng Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
Wilken was remanded in custody and his matter was adjourned to 28 January 2025.
