A man is expected to appear in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court soon after he was arrested in Wellington on Saturday (3 February) when over 7 000 units of abalone with an estimated street value of R800 000 was found in his possession.
According to Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, a Western Cape police spokesperson, police attached to Boland K9 Unit were busy with patrols when they received information of a white Toyota Hilux transporting abalone from Kuils River in the direction of Paarl.
“The members spotted the vehicle on the R44 and stayed in close proximity of the vehicle. Members continued pursuing the vehicle up until the driver drove into a cul de sac in Gardenia Street in Wellington.”
He said police proceeded to approach the vehicle upon which a search ensued.
They recovered 7 760 units of abalone with an estimated street value of R800 000 and detained an adult male on a charge of possession of abalone.
The vehicle was handed in an exhibit.
Swartbooi said the suspect is expected to make a court appearance in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court once charged.
