Abstract: A cable-controlled grab device possessing a pair of scoops directly and linkably connected to a support yoke. A central shaft has the scoops pivotably mounted at opposite ends thereof. An upper portion of tackle is secured to the yoke while between a lower portion thereof and the central shaft is arranged a releasable locking mechanism for indirectly connecting the scoops to the yoke. The locking mechanism has two locking arms urgeable by a remotely controllable actuating mechanism into a locking position in engagement with a locking member associated therewith. The actuating mechanism takes the form of a pressure medium cylinder linkably connected between the locking arms and inserted in a hydraulic circuit adapted to be pressure-loaded so as to force the locking arms into the locking position.