Malatsi backs Icasa probe into Starlink

COMMUNICATIONS and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has thrown his weight behind the investi-gation being conducted by the Inde-pendent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) into Starlink’s alleged unauthorised operations in the country.

- MASHUDU SADIKE [e-mail]

This development comes after the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) alleged that Starlink, a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, was offer-ing its services in South Africa without a licence.

Icasa confirmed that it had launched an investigation into the alleged unlaw-ful use and provision of Starlink ser-vices in South Africa. The regulator has also engaged SpaceX, which is owned by US billionaire Elon Musk, for further clarity and has deployed inspection teams on the ground to investigate the matter.

Icasa spokesperson Milly Matlou said: “Icasa has launched an investiga-tion into the alleged unlawful use and provision of Starlink services in SA. We have also engaged SpaceX for further clarity and have currently deployed inspection teams on the ground to investigate the matter further.”

According to Icasa, its investiga-tion will determine whether Starlink has indeed breached South African laws and regulations. If found guilty, the company could face enforcement actions, including fines or even a ban on its operations in the country.