More than 500 kilograms of abalone with an estimated street value of approximately R900 000 has been seized in two operations in the Western Cape, leading to multiple arrests.

The operations, conducted on 21 May and 22 May, resulted in the seizure of 8 792 units of abalone.

In the first operation, arrests were made near Partridge Point in Simon’s Town and 106 units of abalone were seized.

In the second operation, conducted in collaboration between the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Cape Nature and Provincial Traffic, a suspected vehicle transporting illegally harvested abalone was intercepted near Grabouw and was pursued to Nomzamo near Gordon’s Bay. The driver was arrested and a total of 8 686 units of abalone were seized.

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp commended the rapid response and collaboration between DFFE, SANParks Sea Rangers and K9 units, Cape Nature, City of Cape Town and Provincial Traffic that led to the arrests and seizures, while warning that poaching and other crimes against South Africa’s wildlife will not be tolerated.

“I issue a stern warning to poachers and anyone contemplating poaching: zero tolerance will be given for these criminal activities,” said Aucamp. “The vehicles and vessels you use to poach marine resources will be seized, and you will face the full might of the law. Poachers will find no safe harbour in South Africa.”

The suspects are expected to face charges relating to illegal harvesting of marine resources, possession of illegally obtained abalone and other related offences.

Environmental crime can be reported on 0800 205 005.