Off duty SAPS Cookhouse Highway Patrol members nabbed a suspect and confiscated abalone worth approximately R1 390 000.
According to police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, it is alleged that on Monday, August 21 at about 21:20, members received and followed up on information about a suspicious vehicle travelling on the N10 from Gqeberha towards Cradock.
Janse Van Rensburg said a high-speed chase ensued between a Toyota Avanza and police on the N10 towards Cradock from Cookhouse.
“The members succeeded in blocking off the vehicle approximately 40 km from Cradock.
On searching the vehicle, nine bags containing 1253 units of abalone was found hidden under bags and a black plastic,” said Janse Van Rensburg.
“One suspect, aged 35, was arrested and detained in terms of the Marine Living Resource Act – possession and transportation of abalone.
“The estimated street value of the abalone is R1 390.000,” she added.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, Major General, Zolani Xawuka applauded the dedication and commitment of the members.
“It seems that criminals are not heeding to our warnings. They must know that we will not hesitate to arrest them if they are found using our roads to transport illegal goods.
“Last month, two suspects were also arrested with illegal abalone worth R3.8 million,” said Xawuka.
“We will continue to tighten our grip on these criminals.”
