Abalone worth more than R2m: 2 expected in Worcester court

Two suspects arrested for being in possession of abalone worth more than R2m are expected to appear in the Worcester Magistrate’s Court today.

In a statement yesterday, Western Cape police confirmed the arrests of the two suspects on the N1 near Worcester, in separate incidents, before the abalone could reach its destination.

“In the first incident, members attached to K9 Breederiver, Provincial Crime Intelligence, and Kuilsrivier Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, in collaboration with provincial traffic and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environmental Affairs, arrested a 39-year-old male for possession of abalone without a permit during an integrated operation on Tuesday,” said SAPS.

Acting on intelligence, officers set up a vehicle checkpoint on the N1 near Meiringspark, Worcester. The identified truck was pulled over and searched.

“Abalone was found inside the cabin of the truck by K9 Layla, a protected species detection dog. Further searches uncovered more bags in an external compartment. A total of 4 582 dried abalone, with an estimated street value of R2m, was confiscated,” the police said.

Later that day, a second truck was intercepted by the Worcester Anti-Gang Unit. A search of the vehicle revealed 960 dried abalone, valued at approximately R468 105, inside the cabin. A 41-year-old man was arrested.

Western Cape police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile commended the officers for their vigilance and dedication in securing the arrests and abalone confiscation. –SAnews.gov.za