Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner of Eastern Cape

Reacting to information received of illegal abalone activities at a house in a complex in Lorraine, Gqeberha Flying Squad members successfully arrested two Chinese nationals and confiscated abalone and other fish species during the early hours of this morning.

It is alleged that at about 02:00 this morning, Flying Squad members were monitoring a complex in Macon Road in Lorraine waiting for the suspects to arrive. A short while later, the vehicle entered the complex with police immediately following behind them. One male got off and ran away. As the two other males tried to enter the house, they were apprehended by the members.

With the assistance of Border Policing, Stock Theft Unit and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, the following was confiscated:

•A bag of dried abalone containing 382 units
•A box of dried abalone with 143 units found in the house
•Inside four large deep freezes 912 various species of fish, 212kg of squid, 40kg rock lobster
•Cash

The total estimated value of the abalone is R66 640 and the various types of fish is R95 000.

The men aged 41 and 42 years old were detained on charges in contravention of the Marine Resources Act – illegal possession and transportation of abalone.

The confiscated molluscs and fish were taken away for storage by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs.

The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon.

Ends

Media Enquiries:
Col Priscilla Naidu
071 362 8726

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