A joint intelligence-driven operation between the SAPS Public Order Policing, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Affairs, Sanparks and a private company led to the arrest of two suspects and confiscation of abalone on Friday, February 3, in West End.
According to police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, it is alleged that on the abovementioned date at approximately 15:30, a search warrant was executed at the business premises in West End.
“During the search, a total of 7 388 units of abalone with an estimated value of R1.8 million was confiscated and a green Toyota bakkie,” said Janse Van Rensburg.
She added that the suspects, aged 59 and 30, were detained on charges of contravening the Marine Living Resource Act, 19 of 1998 Regulation 36 sub sect 1 – illegal possession of abalone and will appear in the Gqeberha Magistrate Court on Monday, February 6.
