A joint intelligence operation on Friday resulted in a significant crackdown on illegal marine life trafficking, with the arrest of two foreign nationals and the seizure of abalone valued at over R3.5 million.
The successful operation was conducted by members of Operation Lockdown III and the Endangered Species K9 Unit. Acting on intelligence, the team targeted a property on Amazon Street in Primrose Park.
Upon searching the premises, officials uncovered a sophisticated drying facility. Inside, they found and confiscated 6,400 units of abalone in the process of being dried for the illicit market. The operation also led to the seizure of drying equipment and gas cylinders used in the facility. The estimated street value of the confiscated abalone is R3,520,000.
Two adult male suspects, identified as Chinese and Malawian nationals, were arrested at the scene for the illegal possession of abalone.
The suspects are scheduled to make their first appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 10 November 2025.
