Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Free State

BLOEMFONTEIN - The police in Mangaung Metro arrested a 51-year-old suspect for illegal possession of abalone in Bayswater on Thursday 18 May 2023.

Intelligence-led information was followed and a team, made up of Tactical Response Team members and detectives, arrived at the targeted unit in the identified complex at about 12:45. Members tactically gained access to the unit and found the 51-year-old male hiding inside the bedroom. In another bedroom, members found 782 abalone shells spread out on the floor to dry.

The abalone was seized and the 51-year-old male was arrested for illegal possession thereof. The seized abalone weighed an estimated 14 kilograms and the estimated street value is R310 000.00.

A case docket was opened at Bayswater Police Station. The 51-year-old male will appear in Bloemfontein Magistrate Court soon.

Ends

Enquiries:

Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane

082 461 7473 or 082 757 2233

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