During Operation Pakisa, law enforcement agencies confiscated 633 units of abalone valued around R71 500 and arrested 11 suspected abalone poachers between Pellsrus and Paradise beaches during an operation that stretched over two days in Jeffreys Bay.
According to police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, members from Humansdorp and Gqeberha K9, Ngqurha Border Policing, Kouga Municipality, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries have intensified their efforts to curb crimes against marine life by partnering with private companies, which have since yielded positive results in Jeffreys Bay, after they netted 11 suspected abalone poachers between Friday evening, November 18 and Saturday morning, November 19.
“The use of technology such as surveillance cameras, drones and ski boats by the team in observing a stretch of about 10 kilometres between Pellsrus and Paradise beaches resulted in the arrests and confiscation,” said Nkohli.
“The value of the abalone seized is around R71 500. Police also seized wetsuits and diving equipment during the operation.”
Nkohli said the 11 men aged between 25 and 42 are due to appear in the Humansdorp Magistrate’s Court today, November 21, on charges of Contravening the Marine Life Resources Act 18 of 1998 Reg 36 (1).
Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Tandiswa Kupiso praised all stakeholders for their concerted efforts in ensuring that syndicates poachers are arrested.
