Key Points
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Darren Wilken switches to Legal Aid representation, delaying trial.
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Authorities seized over R640,000 and luxury assets from the couple.
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The case is the largest child pornography investigation in South Africa.
The trial for Darren Wilken and Tiona Moodley has been delayed to June 20 after Wilken asked for Legal Aid representation.
This follows the discovery that Wilken and Moodley were found with over a million child pornography images.
In their recent appearance at Randburg Magistrates Court, Wilken explained that he could not reach his former lawyers and had to switch to Legal Aid.
His previous attorneys, BDK Attorneys, have not officially stepped down from the case, which has raised questions.
This delay will allow Wilken’s new legal team to familiarize themselves with the case. Authorities had previously seized luxury items, including a vehicle and R647,300 in cash from Wilken and Moodley.
Authorities seize assets in child pornography case
Two weeks ago, the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) seized the couple’s assets, including their luxury car and large sums of money.
This action followed a search by the Cybercrime Unit on January 17, 2025. They found that Wilken and Moodley were part of an illegal operation involving child pornography.
Phindi Mjonondwane, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng spokesperson, confirmed that this investigation is part of a joint international effort.
U.S. law enforcement agencies, like the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service, have been working with South African police.
Wilken allegedly ran a website distributing child pornography to clients worldwide, operating from his home in Midrand.
Authorities say this website contained the largest collection of illegal materials found in South Africa.
International effort to stop child pornography
Wilken’s arrest shows the ongoing work by law enforcement agencies to stop child exploitation. The case highlights how international cooperation can help track down and dismantle global child pornography networks.
Wilken faces serious charges, and the investigation continues as authorities work to bring everyone involved to justice. The High Court will review the case again in June, and legal actions will proceed.
