The illegal and lucrative abalone trade in the Western Cape were dealt a heavy blow when abalone with an estimated value of R46 000 were seized on the N2 highway near Knysna on Friday, 5 February 2021 at about 08:30.
Vigilant members attached to the Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Unit received information about a Ford Focus with a CY registration that was en-route to Cape Town with a consignment of abalone on board. The members responded to the information swiftly and spotted the vehicle near the turn-off to Kwanokuthula.
Upon noticing the police this vehicle sped off in the direction of Knysna and a high-speed vehicle chase ensued. The vehicle was brought to a halt just outside Knysna.
A thorough search of the motor vehicle resulted in the confiscation of seven black bags with abalone inside. Police arrested the three occupants, aged 31, 32 and 34 on charge of illegal possession of abalone. Their vehicle was also seized.
All three suspects remain in custody. They will appear in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ court on Monday, 8 February 2021 on the mentioned charge.
The protection of our living marine resources is of utmost importance, especially to our economy. Western Cape provincial police management has commended the members for their vigilance in pursuing the suspects and their ultimate arrest.
