Illegal Abalone Worth R130,000 Seized In Gqeberha During Anti-Poaching Operation

Police in Gqeberha have confiscated illegally harvested abalone valued at an estimated R130,000 as authorities continue efforts to curb the illegal seafood trade. The seizure was made during a targeted operation along Marine Drive on Wednesday. No arrests have been made, with investigations still under way.

Police Recover Illegal Abalone Hidden Along Marine Drive

The illegal abalone was discovered after members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) Combat Team acted on intelligence about poached seafood concealed near Gate 1 in Noordhoek.

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According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, officers searched the area. They were assisted by a diver from a private security company, who helped recover six waist bags hidden between rocks in shallow water.

More Than 1,000 Abalone Units Confiscated In Gqeberha

Following the recovery, officials from Sea Fisheries arrived at the scene to process the confiscated abalone. The haul consisted of a total of 1,048 units.

Among the seized stock were 965 deshelled abalone and 83 shelled abalone. The entire consignment has an estimated street value of R130,000.

Police say no suspects have been arrested in connection with the seizure. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to identify those responsible for the illegally harvested abalone.

The latest recovery forms part of continued efforts by law enforcement to tackle abalone poaching and disrupt the illegal trade operating along South Africa’s coastline.