A major police operation in the Eastern Cape leads to the seizure of illegal abalone and stolen goods worth millions
Following the arrest of suspected perlemoen divers in East London, a significant police operation in the Eastern Cape resulted in the interception of a bus transporting illegal abalone and stolen goods valued at millions of rand. The Komani K9 Unit played a pivotal role in this operation, uncovering a major smuggling attempt.
The bust occurred after authorities received a tip-off about a bus traveling from East London to Zimbabwe, allegedly carrying tower batteries. Upon intercepting the vehicle in Komani, formerly known as Queenstown, the K9 Unit discovered a stash of illicit goods.
Abalone worth R2 million found on bus
During a thorough search of the bus, law enforcement officers uncovered 26 boxes of abalone with an estimated value exceeding R2 million. In addition to the illegal seafood, the authorities seized five solar batteries, six solar panels, tower batteries, inverters, and boxes of medication. The discovery highlighted the extent of the illegal activities being conducted.
Multiple charges
The 48-year-old bus driver now faces multiple charges, including possession of abalone, possession of suspected stolen property, contravention of the Medicines Act 101 of 1965, violation of the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998, and damage to essential infrastructure. The driver is scheduled to appear before the Komani Magistrate’s Court to answer for his alleged crimes.
Brigadier Vukile Ntandane, the station commander, commended the swift action taken by the South African Police Service members involved in the operation. Their dedication to combating crime and safeguarding communities was evident in their response to the situation.
Suspected abalone poachers arrested at Gonubie Black Rock
In a separate incident, four individuals were arrested for possession of perlemoen at Gonubie Black Rock. Acting on a tip-off, the East London K9 unit apprehended the suspects, who were diving with torches in the water. The successful operation led to the recovery of 297 perlemoen units and the confiscation of diving gear and cellphones.
Perlemoen poaching in SA: Illegal abalone trade remains a lucrative business
The illegal harvesting of abalone along the South African coastline continues to pose a significant challenge, with poachers using sophisticated equipment and vessels to evade authorities. According to reports, perlemoen poachers can earn substantial profits from a single shipment of abalone, highlighting the lucrative nature of the illegal trade.
Peter Mbelengwa, a spokesperson for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, emphasized the scale of the illegal abalone trade, estimating it to be worth more than R10 billion. Criminal networks involved in these activities deploy sophisticated tactics to evade detection and maximize their profits.
Sophisticated operation
Illegal operators in the abalone trade utilize high-powered vessels, advanced scuba gear, and operate in large groups to outmaneuver enforcement measures. The illicit activities are orchestrated by well-organized criminal networks, with individuals earning significant sums for their involvement in the trade.
The relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies are crucial in combating the illegal abalone trade and safeguarding marine resources for future generations.
