WESTERN CAPE – Two abalone peddlers were arrested by SAPS members for possession of abalone without documentations, in Brackenfell before the highly valued shellfish could reached its intended destination.
An intelligence driven operation was conducted in Brackenfell, where information regarding a storage facility in Brackenfell Industrial area containing abalone was received and followed up on by members of Kuilsrivier Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU) and Maitland Flying Squad.
The identified vehicles were spotted and pursued, and the storage facility was searched. Inside the facility, 9439 units of dried abalone were found, the value is yet to be determined.
Two vehicles a Hyundai IX35 and a GWM pickup truck used were seized.
Two foreign national males a 49-year-old Chinese and 36-year-old Tanzanian were arrested. Both suspects are due to appear in the Kuilsrivier Magistrates Court on Thursday, 13 August 2026 for the mentioned charges.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt. Gen. Sizakhele Dyantyi, applauded the members involved for their vigilance, outstanding commitment, and dedication that led to the arrests and confiscation of the abalone.
