TSITSIKAMMA – Two suspects were apprehended on 13 April at approximately 16:00 during a routine patrol conducted by rangers in the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area, in the vicinity of the western side of the Bloukrans River, near the Clinton area.

According to SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson JP Louw, during the patrol, rangers discovered several bags concealed underneath trees and upon inspection, the bags were found to contain fresh abalone.

He said that the section ranger was immediately informed, and an observation post was established in the vicinity of the hidden bags.

“While maintaining observation, a group of suspects returned to the site to retrieve the abalone. Rangers moved in and successfully apprehended two individuals, while 11 others fled the scene,” said Louw.

He said that a follow-up foot patrol, supported by drone operations, was conducted to secure the surrounding area.

Louw further said that during this operation, additional bags of abalone and diving equipment were recovered.

“In total, 1,000 units of abalone were confiscated. This included 993 units of shucked (out-of-shell) abalone weighing 142.95 kg, and seven units in-shell weighing 1.35 kg, bringing the combined weight to 144.3 kg,” said Louw.

He said that the two suspects have been arrested and charged under the Marine Living Resources Act (Act No. 18 of 1998), Regulation 36(1)(a), for possession of abalone without a permit.

They are currently detained at the Plettenberg Bay Police Station.

Louw said that SANParks acknowledges the collaborative efforts of Rangers, Storms River SAPS, DFFE, and Border Police in supporting this operation.

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