Illegal seafood operation uncovered in Monte Vista
A 46-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of prohibited marine species at a shop in Monte Vista.
Image: SAPS
Police have arrested a suspect found with 25 different fish species, frogs, crabs and lobster tails at fish shop in Monte Vista.
The shop, identified as Lin Xiong Seafood, came under the suspicion of selling prohibited fish species when, police, attached to Maitland Flying Squad and Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), then conducted a compliance inspection at the business premises on July 10 to ensure it was operating in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in terms of the Sea Fishery Act.
Inside the shop, they found prohibited species being sold including frogs and different types of crabs.
Police spokesperson, Anelisiwe Manyana, said a man aged 46, was detained and is facing charges of selling prohibited marine species and illegal possession of prohibited marine species to the value of R100 000.
"Upon arrival, the members conducted a thorough search and discovered various types of fish, frogs, crabs, and lobster tails with an estimated street value of R100 000.
“A 46-year-old suspect that was found at the premises was arrested and detained at Goodwood SAPS on charges of selling prohibited marine species and illegal possession of prohibited marine species.
“The suspect will appear in the Goodwood Magistrate's Court once charged," Manyana said.
Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.
Cape Argus