In a major breakthrough, the Hawks have arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the alleged leak and sale of South Africa’s 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) matric results.
The suspect, believed to be owner of a private entity called Edumarks, allegedly giving matriculants early access to their Matric Class of 2024 results for a fee of R100, was apprehended on Thursday morning at a residence in Hillcrest, north of Johannesburg, following an intensive investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed the arrest, stating that the operation was carried out by the Serious Economic Offences, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, and Cybercrime Investigation units.
“During the search, various electronic gadgets and an unlicensed shotgun with live ammunition were found,” Mogale said, adding: “The 21 year-old suspect will be detained for the unlawful possession of a firearm and further investigation into the matric result leakage will continue.”
Swift police action
The investigation was launched after the Department of Basic Education lodged a formal complaint on Sunday, January 12, 2025, following the initial breaking of the story. The Hawks moved quickly to trace the source of the breach.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, who earlier hinted at a possible breach, has assured the public that the government is taking the matter seriously.
