Cape Town law enforcement arrests two for trafficking 743 illegal abalone
City of Cape Town law enforcement officers have arrested two suspects after officers intercepted a vehicle carrying 743 illegally harvested abalone.
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A joint law enforcement operation along Clarence Drive in Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town has led to the seizure of 743 units of illegally harvested abalone and the arrest of two suspects, marking another significant blow against the illicit marine resources trade in the Western Cape.
According to the City of Cape Town, Marine and Environmental Unit Law Enforcement officers received information on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, regarding a vehicle allegedly transporting illegally harvested abalone.
"Acting on the information received, the Marine Unit, in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Gordon's Bay and GBSEC Armed Response, conducted an operation to intercept the suspect vehicle," the City said.
The vehicle was successfully intercepted and searched, leading officers to discover "a total of 743 units of abalone believed to have been unlawfully possessed and transported in contravention of marine resource legislation."
Authorities arrested a male and a female suspect on charges under the Marine Living Resources Act.
"As a result of this successful pooling of resources between the different enforcement entities, two suspects, a male and a female, were arrested and charged in terms of the Marine Living Resources Act," the City said.
The confiscated abalone was seized as evidence while the suspects were detained for further investigation and processing.
The latest bust comes just days after another successful operation targeting the illegal exploitation of marine resources.
On June 20, 2026, Marine and Environmental Unit officers acted on information regarding the alleged illegal sale of West Coast Rock Lobster in Sherwood Park, Manenberg. Upon gaining access to a property, officers discovered 720 West Coast Rock Lobster tails.
The occupant of the house was unable to provide documentation proving lawful possession of the lobster tails and was arrested.
"The male who gave them access could not produce any documentation as proof of him being legally in possession of the tails and he was subsequently arrested and charged in terms of the Marine and Living Resources Act," the City said.
Authorities have urged residents to assist in combating the illegal harvesting and trade of marine resources by reporting suspicious activities.
"Members of the public are encouraged to report this type of transgression of the law on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline. The City offers a reward of up to R5000 for information that leads to a successful operational outcome," the City said.
The seizures underscore ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on the illegal trade in high-value marine species, which continues to threaten South Africa’s marine ecosystems and fishing resources.
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