GQEBERHA — A joint operation by the Gqeberha K9 Unit and the Gqeberha Flying Squad has led to a major abalone bust, the confiscation of a vehicle, and the recovery of multiple dangerous weapons in Gqeberha.

According to provincial police, officers were conducting proactive crime prevention and visibility patrols on Tuesday, 3 November, when the breakthrough was made.

At approximately 23:55 that evening, members patrolling Kamdebo Street in Algoa Park spotted a blue Volkswagen Polo traveling at high speed. Officers pursued the vehicle as it turned into the parking area of The Aloes Flats, where they successfully brought it to a stop.

Upon inspecting the back seat of the vehicle, police discovered multiple bags filled with abalone. The sole occupant of the car, a 21-year-old man, was immediately arrested and charged with the illegal possession and transportation of abalone.

Authorities confiscated the blue Volkswagen Polo 1.6 hatchback alongside 1,935 units of abalone, weighing a total of 207 kg. Additionally, two chucking tools and a scale were recovered at the scene. The estimated street value of the confiscated marine resources is approximately R365,566.

Earlier on the same day, the combined forces of the Gqeberha Flying Squad and K9 Unit conducted targeted stop-and-search operations across the Missionvale and Algoa Park areas. During these patrols, officers uncovered several dangerous weapons that had been abandoned by suspects, including two replica 9mm pistols, three Okapi knives, two flip knives, and one kitchen knife.

The 21-year-old suspect is scheduled to make his appearance in the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court during the week to face charges relating to the contravention of the Living Marine Resources Act.

Police have urged community members to continue assisting law enforcement by reporting suspicious and illegal activities.

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