According to the Bedfordview SAPS spokesperson, Sergeant Mduduzi Nhlabathi, the father and son duo had been suspected of illegal activities for some time.
“Investigations were conducted after a tip-off was given to the SAPS. A search warrant was obtained to search the premises along Talisman Road. That is where the pair was arrested and charged with possession of abalone. They will appear in the Germiston Court soon,” he said.
Sgt Nhlabathi encouraged members of the public to continue reporting crime to the police.
“Be it suspicious-looking individuals or cars at places they are not supposed to be, alert the police by phoning your sector vehicle number,” he said.
Residents living in Oriel have expressed anger after the arrest, some saying it had come as a shock.
“You don’t go through your day prepared for the day the police pounce on your neighbours for possession of illegal substances. I commend the police for a job well done and wish that people would stop engaging in criminal activities,” said a woman who lives near Talisman Road.
Echoing the same sentiment was another resident who told the NEWS that although he did not suspect that illegal activities could be taking place in the house, he was relieved the police removed a criminal element from the community.
Meanwhile, Sgt Nhlabathi reminded residents to always exercise caution when at home and on the roads.
“We urge our people to always know how long a car has been following them and to always keep their gates and doors locked,” he added.
