The SAPS Port of Ngqura, in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), arrested four suspects and confiscated abalone worth approximately R7 million in Bluewater Bay on Friday, November 22.
According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, information was received about a vehicle transporting abalone in the Bluewater Bay area.
She stated that the joint operation continued in the area of Bluewater Bay.
“While they were patrolling the area in search of the vehicle, at approximately 18:00, the members noticed a white Toyota RAV4. In an attempt to stop the vehicle, the driver sped away and a high-speed chase ensued,” she reported.
She added that the vehicle drove into a garage on Whales Way, but the members were able to stop behind it at the house.
She also mentioned: “During a search of the vehicle, the members confiscated two bags of abalone. The members continued to search the house where they found more abalone along with processing equipment.
“A total of 19,830 units of dry abalone were found inside the house with an estimated value of R6,434,377.00. They also confiscated 3,985 units of wet abalone with an estimated value of R831,048.00. The total value of the abalone confiscated is R7,265,425.00. The Toyota Rav4 that was used for transporting the abalone was confiscated, and an undisclosed amount of cash was also seized.”
She further stated that four foreign national suspects, aged between 35 and 40, were detained on charges of contravening the Marine Living Resources Act, 19 of 1998, Regulation 36 subsection 1 – illegal possession of abalone.
They will appear in the Motherwell Magistrate’s Court on Monday, November.
The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, reiterated that illegal abalone activities are a huge concern and commended the SAPS Port of Ngqura and DFFE for their alertness in apprehending these smugglers.
“Illegal abalone activity is continuing in Gqeberha; however, SAPS members are leaving no stone unturned as they clamp down on criminals.
“The poaching of these molluscs can have a significant negative impact on endangered species, so efforts to apprehend those involved are crucial. By apprehending abalone poachers, our officials are not only upholding the law but also sending a strong message that illegal activities like this will not be tolerated,” warned Ncata.
