Cape Town – Two anti-poaching operations this week in Simon’s Town and Grabouw led to the recovery of shucked abalone with an estimated street value of R1,6 million and several arrests of suspects.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment told The Bulrushes that 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 involving the department, Cape Nature, and Provincial Traffic, a suspected vehicle transporting illegally harvested abalone was intercepted near Grabouw and was pursued to Nomzamo close to Gordons Bay.
“The driver was arrested, and a total of 8686 units of abalone was seized,” the department said in a statement on Friday, 22 May 2026.
“In total, 8686 units of shucked abalone, weighing 892.41 kg with an estimated street value of approximately R1 636 082.025, were seized.
The department stated that these joint operations demonstrate the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies to protecting South Africa’s marine resources.
The anti-poaching rapid response and collaboration included: the department, SANparks Seam Rangers, K9 units, Cape Nature, City of Cape Town, and Provincial Traffic.
Commenting on the anti-poaching efforts, Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Minister Willie Aucamp commended law enforcement authorities for the successful apprehension of poachers in Simon’s Town and Grabouw, 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 Minister 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 arrested suspects are expected to face serious charges relating to illegal harvesting of marine resources, possession of illegally obtained abalone, and other related offences.
The department said it continues to work closely with all spheres of government and communities to combat organised poaching syndicates and protect our valuable marine biodiversity for future generations.
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