GQEBERHA – Quick response from Gqeberha Flying Squad members to thwart an alleged illegal abalone deal, resulted in the arrest of a Chinese national and the confiscation of an illegal firearm and cash.

It is alleged that on Thursday, 02 September 2021 at about 17:30 Flying Squad members received and followed up on information of a person on his way to secure an abalone deal. While in Marine Drive in Summerstrand members spotted a brown BMW. As the police officers approached the vehicle, the driver sped off but was eventually stopped by them.

A 9mm firearm was found in his jacket (serial number filed off) as well as an undisclosed amount of cash found in the vehicle. It is further alleged that the suspect offered the members cash in exchange for letting him go.

The 30 year old suspect is detained on charges of possession of a prohibited firearm, illegal possession of ammunition and bribery. He is expected to appear in court soon.

Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Brig Thandiswa Kupiso commended the members for their swift response and apprehension of the suspect. ‘Illegal abalone activities in the metro is a huge concern and every effort must be made to protect the exploitation of this species from illegal poachers/dealers. Corruption and bribery is one of the major problems facing society as it erodes trust and can cause reputational damage to the image of our organisation. We will not tolerate such unethical behaviour of criminals who will employ every trick in the book to disrupt and tarnish the good work of our members through bribery and corruption,’ added Brig Kupiso.

Source: South African Police Service