🚨 South African Agency Opposes Bail for Bitcoin Donor Linked to Terrorism

🚨 South African Agency Opposes Bail for Bitcoin Donor Linked to Terrorism

🔵 A South African law enforcement agency, the Hawks, has opposed bail for Ziyadh Hoorzook, who is accused of donating $614 in bitcoin to an organization allegedly funding terrorism. Investigating officer John Sithole argued that Hoorzook, currently in custody, might evade trial if released on bail.

⚡ Hoorzook denies knowledge of al-Sadaqah’s alleged ties to terrorism. However, Sithole claimed to have found evidence on Hoorzook’s devices suggesting otherwise. Hoorzook was arrested for allegedly violating the Protection of Constitutional Democracy and Related Activities Act, with the crime believed to have occurred in 2017.

🔍 Following his arrest, South African law enforcement stated that a preliminary investigation indicated the funds were transferred to support “participants” in another country with weapons and financial aid. Hoorzook’s lawyer, Mohammed Razak, stated that Hoorzook plans to plead not guilty, arguing that the state has “misaligned” him with a “narrative that is factually untrue.” His bail hearing is scheduled for January 15.

📢 Godfrey Lebeya, head of the Hawks, emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating illicit funding for organized crime and terrorism. He stated,
Our dedicated team, in collaboration with local and international partners, are working as a collective to halt the illicit flow of funds that fuel organized crime and terrorism.

🌍 Since being placed on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) gray list in 2023, South African authorities have taken steps to address identified deficiencies, including requiring digital asset exchange platforms to collect details of parties involved in crypto transactions. However, some outstanding action items remain before the country can be removed from the gray list. A recommendation for delisting may be made in June if the FATF Africa Joint Group is satisfied with the country’s progress.

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