GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - A quick response by police officers in Da Gamaskop, Mossel Bay, led to the arrest of a man in possession of abalone worth an estimated R13 000 on Sunday evening, 3 July.
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies, members received a tip-off about possible abalone poaching near Bakke Road.
Officers followed up and spotted two men in the area at around 20:00.
"When they approached the suspects, a scuffle broke out, during which a bag containing abalone fell from a backpack. One of the men managed to flee the scene," said Spies.
A search of the apprehended suspect, a 35-year-old man, led to the discovery of 46 units of abalone. He was arrested on the spot and remains in custody.
He is expected to appear in court soon on charges of unlawful possession of abalone, resisting arrest, and assault.
The second suspect is still at large.
Western Cape police management praised the officers involved, saying their swift action and vigilance contribute significantly to the ongoing fight against the illegal harvesting of marine resources along the coast.
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