Zimbabwean arrested after police uncover alleged fake SA ID ‘factory’ in Joburg

Johannesburg Police have arrested a Zimbabwean national after an operation allegedly manufacturing fraudulent South African identity documents was uncovered in Joburg, authorities said.

Tip led police to Hillbrow operation

According to police, information received on Wednesday, 9 September prompted officers to investigate a man allegedly recruiting people who wanted South African smart identity cards. The matter was investigated in the Hillbrow policing precinct.

Items seized during search

The search reportedly produced several items police say were linked to the operation: six South African smart identity cards, 22 blank smart identity cards, a laptop and a smart card printing machine. Police said the operation also involved the production of forged bank statements and payslips.

Arrest and ongoing investigation

A Zimbabwean national was arrested following the search and is expected to appear in court soon. Police did not disclose the identity of the suspect or the specific charges he is expected to face.

Police appeal to the public

Authorities said the investigation into the alleged fraudulent-document operation is continuing and warned members of the public against becoming involved in the illegal manufacture or acquisition of fraudulent identity documents and other forged paperwork. Police urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to report anonymously through the MySAPS App.

It is not yet clear how long the operation had been running or how many people may have obtained fraudulent documents through it.