
Darren Wilken and his girlfriend, Tionna Moodley, who was arrested in early 2025, for the possession and sale of Child Pornography material, and money laundering, appeared briefly in Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Johannesburg, said during their appearance, State Advocate Colleen Ryan formally read the charges into the record and served the indictment.
She said their arrests followed the receipt of intelligence from international law enforcement partners, which enabled the South African Police Service to identify a target within the country.
“During the operation, authorities seized electronic devices allegedly containing millions of images and videos of child pornography, as well as hundreds of thousands of rand in cash, believed to be the proceeds of the alleged criminal activities. The State alleges that the accused hosted and distributed child-abuse material globally for financial gain,” she said.
Mjonondwane added that the NPA remained steadfast in prioritising the protection of children. “It will continue to pursue the prosecution of all individuals involved in crimes that endanger their safety and well-being.” The matter has been enrolled for pre-trial proceedings in the High Court on February 19. Moodley is currently out on bail, while Wilken is in prison custody.
