ICASA Probes Alleged Illegal Use and Distribution of Starlink Services in South Africa

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)  has taken note with serious concern, recent reports alleging that Starlink,  a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, may be offering its services within the Republic of South Africa without the requisite authorisation. To this end, ICASA has published a general notice under Government Gazette no 49777 reiterating that all entities offering electronic communications services within South Africa are required to comply fully with the applicable legislative and regulatory frameworks.

The Authority has also formally engaged SpaceX to seek clarity on the reported activities and is currently awaiting a response. Furthermore, ICASA has instituted a formal investigation to ascertain the veracity of the allegations and to gather relevant facts and evidence.

Members of the public and industry stakeholders who are in possession of any supporting evidence are encouraged to submit such information to this email satinvestigation@icasa.org.za to assist with the investigation. In the interim, ICASA has deployed inspection teams to conduct physical verifications in the affected areas. This operation is being executed in collaboration with other relevant organs of state to ensure a coordinated and lawful response.

“Should the investigation yield any breach with regulatory and legislative frameworks, the Authority will explore the applicable enforcement actions within its disposal which may include amongst others lodging a formal complaint with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)”

– Mothibi Ramusi, Chairperson, ICASA

ICASA reiterates its uncompromising position against any form of non-compliance within the South African regulatory environment.