Two men were arrested in Strand early Tuesday morning (22 September) after Law Enforcement had intercepted a vehicle carrying 856 units of illegally harvested abalone hidden in the boot.

The joint law-enforcement action took place at approximately 05:55 at the intersection of George Street and Gordon’s Bay Drive.

City Law Enforcement officers executed the stop after receiving a tip-off regarding a vehicle allegedly transporting illicit contraband in the area.

On stopping the targeted vehicle officers engaged the two occupants – aged 35 and 36, both residents of Macassar – and received permission to search the car.

A search of the boot revealed seven bags packed with a total of 856 shucked abalone units.

Both men were taken into custody at the scene.

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Confirming the incident, Provincial police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said Strand police had registered a case of possessing abalone without a permit for formal investigation.

“The vehicle used was handed in as an exhibit used in the commission of a crime,” he said, confirming that both the vehicle and the contraband were seized by authorities.

The suspects faced charges relating to the illegal possession and transport of abalone, and were expected to make their first appearance in court on Friday 25 September.