Our endeavors to root out the illegal and lucrative abalone trade in this province were rewarded when abalone with a combined value to the tune of R 9 million were confiscated yesterday afternoon.
Our investigation into abalone smuggling led us to a warehouse in Senna Park Killarney Gardens where two Chinese nationals, aged 31 and 48, were arrested for being in possession of 27182 dry and 1551 wet shucked abalone with a street value of about R 6 million. Various scales, crates and containers, cardboard boxes and also a forklift were also found on the premises.
From there our members proceeded to a warehouse in Esso Street, Montague Gardens where they uncovered another illegal abalone facility. Numerous crates and 12266 units of abalone with a value of R 3 million were found in a refrigeration room. Two Malawian men, aged 26 and 33, were arrested.
The suspects are due to make a court appearance in Cape Town Magistrates Court on Monday on charges relating to the Living Marine Resources Act, including the illegal possession of abalone.
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