A total of 10 suspects aged between 18 and 67 were arrested by the Hawks’ Economic Protected Resources team based in Gqeberha for charges of operating a fishing establishment without a permit on Thursday, 11 May 2023.
The Hawks responded to nformation that was received about abalone activities in a residential premises in Algoa Park in Gqeberha. Surveillance was done at the premises and a search warrant was granted hence the search on Thursday morning.
During the search, 10 suspects were arrested and 1674 units of abalone worth R376 000 were seized. Two motor vehicles; an Opel Corsa bakkie and a Ford Focus sedan were also confiscated.
The suspects will appear in the Gqeberha New Law Magistrate’s Court on 15 May 2023.
The team is commended by the Provincial Head, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya for swiftly executing such a sterling a job.