Eastern Cape: An abalone smuggler dives into moving truck to evade arrest

An abalone smuggler opted to risk ending his life than be captured by the police after he was busted on the other side of the law in Eastern Cape.

ABALONE SMUGGLERS DRIVING IN SUSPCIOUS FASHION

At the weekend, SAPS Cookhouse Highway Patrol apprehended suspects in possession of smuggled abalone.

Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu says this is despite several police warnings, abalone smugglers still choose to become involved in this illegal crime, some risking their lives in their efforts to get away from police.

An alleged suspect, age unknown died on Sunday evening, while escaping from police, Naidu confirmed.

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THE FATAL CHASE ON THE N10

It is alleged that late in the evening, SAPS Cookhouse Highway patrol members were patrolling on the N10 when they noticed two vehicles travelling together.

“As soon as they attempted to stop the vehicles, they started speeding. The Audi  Q5 was stopped just outside Cookhouse. The driver of the vehicle jumped out and ran into the trailer of a passing truck while trying to run away. He died on the scene,” she explained.

“Two other suspects, aged 31 and 37 years old were arrested.”

Naidu

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The identity of the deceased is yet to be confirmed. Naidu said Police confiscated 43 bags (4785 units) of abalone.

“The estimated street value is R3,8 million. The second vehicle, a Chevy Spark was found abandoned on the Cradock Road and was confiscated,” she added.

“Police are investigating a culpable homicide in respect of the accident. The suspects are expected to appear in the Somerset East magistrate soon on charges of illegal possession of abalone and illegal transportation of abalone,” Naidu further said.

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PROVINCIAL COMMISSIONER LAUDS SAPS COOKHOUSE HIGHWAY PATROL

Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, Major General Zolani Xawuka reiterated that illegal abalone activities is a huge concern and commended SAPS Cookhouse Highway Patrol members for their alertness and intuition in nabbing these smugglers before the highly valued shellfish reached its intended destination.

“The poaching of these molluscs can have a significant negative impact on the endangered species so efforts to apprehend those involved is crucial. By apprehending abalone poachers, our officials are not only upholding the law but also sending a strong message that illegal activities like this will not be tolerated,” warned Maj Gen Xawuka.

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