A stop-and-search operation on the N1 highway near Trompsburg on Sunday led to a high-speed chase, followed by the arrest of a man (50) and the recovery of abalone worth an estimated R2m.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli says Trompsburg police members, at around 23:00, were busy with observations and stop-and-search activities when they tried to stop a white Isuzu bakkie.

“The driver ignored the warning to stop and drove recklessly passing other motorists. A blue light chase ensued and continued to Edenburg where the suspect was pulled off the road,” Kareli says

When the suspect realised that his vehicle was trapped, he allegedly got out and fled on foot.

Kareli says the man was chased down by two police officials and arrested not far from his vehicle.

“Bringing him back to the vehicle, members discovered that the suspect was transporting abalone. The suspect was arrested for possession of abalone, failing to adhere to police officers’ instructions, as well as reckless and negligent driving,” says Kareli.