By Milcah Tanimu
A significant SIM card fraud ring has been dismantled in South Africa, thanks to the efforts of the Communication Risk Information Centre (COMRiC). The operation, conducted in Gauteng and the Free State, led to the arrest of 48 suspects—45 in Johannesburg and 3 in Bloemfontein, all foreign nationals. Among those arrested, six Chinese nationals were identified as the masterminds behind the operation.
The authorities seized over two million illegally obtained SIM cards from various providers, along with bulk SMS messaging machines. These SIM cards, although not cloned or fake, were obtained unlawfully. The arrests in Bloemfontein were the result of a comprehensive operation involving police units, government departments, private security, and forensic investigators, who discovered the SIM cards in two houses in Woodlands, Bloemfontein.
Thokozani Mvelase, CEO of COMRiC, highlighted the connection between these machines and various criminal activities, including identity theft, information theft, and unauthorized bank access. These activities also pose significant challenges for network providers, causing network congestion and increasing security costs.
In response to this issue, MTN announced in March that it would crack down on illegally registered SIM cards sold by partners. MTN now deregisters SIM cards that are not activated within 72 hours of registration.
Additionally, South Africa’s Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has lost over $16 million to cyber attacks in the last decade, with some speculation about possible collusion between officials and criminals.
**Choosing the Right Car for Nigeria: CNG, EV, or Petrol?**
With the removal of the petrol subsidy in 2023, petrol prices surged by 200%. This increase led to a renewed interest in electric vehicles (EVs) as an alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. While EVs offer numerous benefits, several challenges prevent the average Nigerian from owning and using one.
Siltech, a Nigerian EV manufacturer, offers a three-wheeler called the Falcon, which is relatively affordable and practical for daily use. However, it does not provide the same experience as driving a petrol-powered vehicle like the Toyota Camry.
Another viable option is compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. CNG-powered vehicles run on compressed natural gas and offer several advantages. They burn cleaner than petrol, are more efficient, and provide greater mileage, making them better for the environment and cost-effective in the long run.
For a comprehensive comparison of these options and their suitability for Nigerian car users, check out Bolu’s latest insights.
**E-Hailing Drivers Protest New Airport Fee and Uniform Mandate**
The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) is threatening a strike in response to a new directive requiring its drivers to pay ₦45,000 for airport parking. This directive, reportedly issued by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has sparked significant controversy.
In addition, AUATON’s letter to the Minister of Aviation opposes Bolt’s new policy mandating drivers to wear uniforms, which the union views as an attempt to monopolize the market. AUATON emphasizes that its members are self-employed and should control their relationship with companies like Bolt, Uber, and InDrive. This stance aligns with Bolt’s position that drivers are independent contractors, not employees.
The union is calling for an emergency meeting with the minister before the directive’s implementation on July 15, 2024, to avoid an indefinite strike and potential disruption at Lagos airport. AUATON suggests that the Federal Ministry of Aviation should rent out parking spaces to its members for a daily fee, keeping control with the union and regulated by FAAN, rather than Bolt.
Kolawole Aina, AUATON’s Southwest Regional Chairman, mentioned that FAAN allocated parking space to e-hailing drivers in 2022, which Bolt quickly secured. Drivers had to undergo biometric verification and submit a police character certificate to AVSEC. Now, they’re being asked to pay another ₦45,000 and wear Bolt-branded uniforms, despite many using multiple apps.
Aina suggests that FAAN should direct the fee towards the companies, not the drivers. Bolt, on the other hand, has stated that they must comply with new security measures and regulations, as they do not control these developments.
**In Case You Missed It**
– Showmax to raise prices for all packages except Premier League in South Africa, starting August
– Safaricom surpasses Airtel Kenya’s 5G sites by 113, aims for 1,700
– Innovate Africa launches with $2.5 million fund to support 20 early-stage African startups
**What I’m Watching**
– Psychosis or Spiritual Awakening: Phil Borges at TEDxUMKC
**Opportunities**
– Pitch Friday is tomorrow, Friday, July 12, 2024. [Register here](#) to attend and [apply here](#) to pitch.
– EarlyNode is looking for a Technical Writer. [Apply here](#).
– Ventures Platform has over 100 job openings across its portfolio companies. [Apply here](#).
– Moniepoint is hiring for 70 positions in the United Kingdom and several Nigerian states, including Lagos, Abia, and Anambra. [Check them out here](#) to apply.
Have a terrific Thursday!
**Victoria Fakiya for Techpoint Africa**
