ANA reports that nine marine inspectors from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) appeared in the Hermanus Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on a range of charges including corruption.  

They are part of a group of 17 suspects, arrested by the Hawks on Monday for their alleged involvement in an abalone poaching syndicate.  The accused are facing seven charges that include racketeering, theft, defeating the ends of justice and corruption.  Adam Baajies from Gansbaai, and eight other marine inspectors, allegedly worked with the remaining eight suspects between September and November 2016.  The State requested a seven day postponement so that the cases could be joined.  Warrants of arrest have also been issued for a further four suspects and they are expected to join the 17 suspects already in custody.  The case was postponed to 14 March, when the State is expected to oppose bail.

• A short report is at The Citizen

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