In a joint operation between SAPS Flying Squad members and a private anti-poaching unit, two suspects were arrested and abalone and diving equipment were confiscated.
It is alleged that on Wednesday, 31 March 2021, Flying Squad members and the anti-poaching unit held waylay duties in the Sardinia Bay area when they noticed suspicious activities in the coastal area. At approximately 00:50 on the morning of 1 April 2021, two suspects were found busy loading abalone.
After a thorough search of the area, diving equipment was also seized.
A total of 151 units of abalone was seized. The total estimated value of the abalone and the diving equipment is R100 000-00.
Both suspects aged 23 and 32 were arrested on charges of the Contravention of Regulation 36(1) of Marine Living Resources Act (Act 18 of 1998) and will appear in court soon.