Two people were arrested for possession of Abalone on Monday night.
It was about 11.30pm when Ladysmith K9 Unit members were doing routine patrols on the N3 and noticed a vehicle travelling between the trucks. This raised their suspicions and they stopped the vehicle. A Chinese National was behind the wheel and he was accompanied by a Zimbabwean. On searching the vehicle, about 10kg of frozen Abalone (a common name for any of a group of small to very large edible sea snails) was found.
The men did not have a permit to have the Abalone in their possession. They were also in possession of a large amount of cash. The men were arrested and have been charged under the Marine Resources Act. They will appear in court later this week.
The value of the Abalone is estimated at R15,000. The case will be investigated by the Durban Organised Crime Unit.
Ladysmith acting station commander Colonel TM Mngadi commended Warrant Officer C Francis and Constable WN Mkhize (K9) for their vigilance and dedication.
