Abalone worth more than R3 million has been seized in Cape Town following an intelligence-driven operation that targeted an illegal drying facility. The raid, carried out by the South African Police Service’s Operation Lockdown III together with the Endangered Species K9 Unit, uncovered 6,400 units of dried abalone with an estimated street value of R3.52 million. Two suspects, a Chinese national and a Malawian national, were arrested and are expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrates’ Court.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George welcomed the breakthrough, saying the success of the operation reflects the strength of collaboration between law-enforcement teams. He noted that the coordinated action demonstrates South Africa’s continued commitment to protecting its marine resources from illegal exploitation.
Abalone poaching remains one of the country’s most entrenched environmental crimes, often linked to organised criminal networks. Recent enforcement wins form part of South Africa’s broader obligations under the Cape Town Declaration on Crimes that Affect the Environment, adopted during the country’s G20 Presidency. The declaration recognises environmental crimes as organised-crime threats that require global cooperation.
South Africa has also strengthened international controls by supporting the up-listing of dried abalone under CITES Appendix II, a step that tightens global trade regulations and places additional pressure on illegal markets.
Minister George said ongoing enforcement efforts are essential for safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity, adding that every successful seizure brings the country closer to protecting its ocean heritage for future generations.
