Bootleg CDs, DVDs dealer sent to prison
A 36-year-old Mozambican man, Jacqem Armando Chirinda, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, or a fine of R10 000, after he was recently caught selling bootleg DVDs and music CDs in Dunswart.
As a result of complaints regarding sales of counterfeit items in Dunswart, EMPD officers initiated a crime operation targeting counterfeit goods in the area, on July 10.
They managed to arrest five suspects, including Chirinda, for possession and dealing in counterfeit goods, including DVDs and CDs, which were then taken to the Boksburg SAPS.
Chirinda was found in possession of 50 movie DVDs, 13 music DVDs, 63 MP3 CDs, 39 audio CDs and 20 porn DVDs, with a combined market value of R27 600.
He pleaded guilty on August 6 and the court also found him guilty as charged.
It was also established that he is in the country illegally during his sentencing.
The court sentenced him to a fine of R10 000 or 12 months in prison.
The court also ordered that he be deported after serving his sentence.
The Southern African Federation Against Copyright Theft (SAFACT) applauded the police officers for their efforts to root out piracy, adding that the effects and implications of piracy are huge, as they demoralise creative minds and affect the income of the artists.
The organisation also issued a call to consumers to assist the police and anti-counterfeit organisations across the continent to root out piracy.
Despite the intermittent arrests of people dealing in counterfeit goods, the Advertiser has discovered that counterfeit CDs and DVDs are available on many street corners in the Boksburg CBD, Dunswart, Boksburg North, at the East Rand Mall and other areas.
Members of the public can either send an anonymous SMS to Crime Line at 32211, phone Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or send an email to info@safact.co.za. -@FanieFLK
