Three male suspects aged 27, 28, and 32 were arrested in the early hours of 07 May 2025 following a joint operation by the Gonubie SAPS, East London Dog Unit, and Green Scorpions. The operation was initiated after authorities received intelligence about illegal diving activities at German Bay Beach.
Members conducted surveillance from 22:00 and at approximately 03:30, spotted four males emerging from the sea carrying bags. When the suspects noticed the law enforcement presence, they dropped the bags and attempted to flee back into the water. Three of the suspects were successfully apprehended, while the fourth escaped.
Upon inspection, the recovered bags were found to contain 693 abalone with an estimated street value of R200 000.00.
The arrested suspects face charges of illegal possession of abalone and are scheduled to appear before the East London Magistrate’s Court on 07 May 2025.
