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Message: [QUOTE="Queen, post: 85017, member: 27"] That cheap decoder hustle just got loud warnings, and regulators are basically saying enjoy it while you can. What set this off [LIST] [*]Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe is fed up with illegal TV services popping up everywhere. [*]The agency is openly threatening legal action, not gentle reminders. [*]The tone is very much last warning energy. [/LIST] Devices in the crosshairs [LIST] [*]Names being flagged include OVHD, StarSat, DigiSat, Mediastar, and Senator. [*]These boxes are being sold and used outside the law. [*]If it looks like a shortcut to premium channels, it probably is. [/LIST] Who dropped the warning [LIST] [*]Matthias Chakanyuka signed off on the statement dated January 22, 2026. [*]He described the situation as an ongoing and blatant breach of broadcasting rules. [*]The concern is not new, but patience is clearly gone. [/LIST] What the illegal services are doing [LIST] [*]Some operators are running shady subscription setups. [*]Users get access to pirated content without proper licenses. [*]That setup is being blamed for hurting the legit broadcasting industry. [/LIST] What the law actually says [LIST] [*]Chakanyuka pointed straight to the Broadcasting Services Act. [*]No license means no broadcasting, full stop. [*]This applies to sellers, middlemen, and anyone helping distribute the service. [/LIST] Decoder sellers are not off the hook [LIST] [*]Selling boxes is regulated, not a free-for-all. [*]All set-top-box suppliers must go through a type approval process. [*]That requirement sits under the Broadcasting Services Regulations of 2020. [/LIST] Enforcement mood check [LIST] [*]BAZ says it is ready to investigate, prosecute, and follow cases through. [*]Selling, distributing, or even using these decoders counts as a violation. [*]The message is enforcement first, excuses later. [/LIST] Consumers also get warned [LIST] [*]Buyers and subscribers are being told to walk away from illegal services. [*]Using these promotes unlawful activity and undercuts licensed players. [*]Ignorance is not being treated as a defense. [/LIST] What BAZ says it wants [LIST] [*]A broadcasting space that is lawful and properly regulated. [*]Protection for consumers and licensed broadcasters. [*]A clear signal that the gray market is running out of room. [/LIST] [/QUOTE]

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