The Overstrand K-9 Units, in partnership with the Rural Safety Unit (RSU), other municipal law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service have arrested 31 suspects for a range of crimes in the period 22 January to 4 February.
Four of these suspects were apprehended and have appeared in court for possession of abalone, four others were arrested for possession of drugs and two for driving under the influence.
A total of 19 suspects wanted for a range of crimes were also arrested by these units.
Their successes include the confiscation of 3 118 whole abalone, 784 units of shucked abalone and six bankies (small plastic bags) of tik.
The Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, commended these units for making criminals’ lives “uncomfortable”.
“As the Western Cape Government we are aiming to halve the murder rate by 2029, and the operations of these units, particularly how they are interrupting the illicit trade of drug and marine life, are significantly contributing to our achieving this goal.
“I once again thank and urge our residents to work with these units, as we aim to create safer communities across the entire province.”