Poachers held near Robben Island
2009-01-12 14:12
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Cape Town - Eight people were arrested early on Monday morning for allegedly poaching near Robben Island, Western Cape police said.
Inspector Bernadine Steyn said the people, aged between 22 and 51, were arrested following investigations into abalone poaching conducted from Sunday night to Monday morning.
The group was arrested after being found on a boat in the restricted sea area about 50m from the shore line.
They allegedly tried to flee when approached by police and attempted to overturn one of the official's boats by driving into it.
Steyn said in a statement that the police boat was damaged and rubber bullets were fired in an attempt to stop the suspects' boat.
"When the boat still did not stop, shots were fired at the engine after which the boat came to a stop," she said.
Diving equipment was found on the boat.
The group was arrested for contravening the Marine Living Resources Act.
The 51-year-old skipper of the boat was also arrested for attempted murder.
They were all expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate's Court soon.
- SAPA