The man hunting DStv pirates in South Africa
The article profiles Frikkie Jonker, described as Irdeto’s director focused on broadcasting piracy and cybersecurity, working closely with MultiChoice to protect DStv content in South Africa. It outlines his background in intelligence and enforcement, including earlier service in the South African National Defence Force, roles at MultiChoice, a period at Microsoft in anti piracy work, and later returning to MultiChoice Group leadership roles.
It says his current work includes identifying and disrupting pirate streaming operations, helping track DStv streams that are rebroadcast to non subscribers, and supporting law enforcement actions. The piece highlights arrests linked to the Waka TV operation and describes ongoing investigations, with MultiChoice and Irdeto presenting prosecutions as a deterrent message to piracy networks.
The article also frames piracy as part of a wider cybercrime environment, arguing that weak regulation and enforcement challenges make parts of Africa attractive to criminal activity, while praising recent cooperation and successful raids. It cites operations in the Western Cape during 2025 and notes suspects can face charges such as money laundering, copyright infringement, and cybercrime related offences.
