The case against a Midrand couple accused of producing and distributing child sex abuse material has been transferred to the High Court in Johannesburg. Darren Wilken and Tiona Moodley briefly appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where the matter was formally escalated.
Moodley is currently out on bail, while Wilken remains behind bars.
Their arrest followed a joint investigation by South African police and the FBI, launched after a minor in the United States reported a sextortion incident. The probe linked the couple to an international child sexual exploitation network.
Wilken and Moodley face charges ranging from money laundering and drug possession to multiple cybercrime-related offences. Authorities say electronic devices seized during their arrest contained millions of images and videos of child sexual abuse, along with a substantial amount of cash believed to be proceeds of their alleged activities.
According to the State, the pair allegedly hosted and distributed child abuse content to global audiences for profit.
NPA Gauteng spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the prosecuting authority remains committed to protecting children and will continue to pursue anyone involved in crimes that threaten their safety.
The case has been postponed to February for a pre-trial conference.