A Johannesburg resident has been arrested for using cryptocurrency to fund terrorism, according to authorities. The suspect, a 35-year-old male, was apprehended by South Africa's Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, following a lengthy investigation. The arrest came after suspicions of terrorism financing were raised in 2018. Investigations revealed that the suspect carried out crypto transactions through a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) called Luno. Funds were allegedly transferred from the suspect's bank account to Luno's custody account and then sent to an organization claiming to be a charity, but which was actually requesting financial support for activities involving weapons. During a search of the suspect's residence, authorities discovered that firearms were not stored safely as required by law. The suspect will appear in court on charges of contravening anti-terrorism legislation. South Africa has been taking measures to combat terrorism funding, including prosecuting individuals involved in such activities.



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