Two suspects have been arrested for the alleged possession of 1000 units of fresh abalone in the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area, which lies on the Western Cape and Eastern Cape border.
They were apprehended on Monday in the vicinity of the western side of the Bloukrans River, near the Clinton area, during a routine patrol conducted by rangers.
“During the patrol, rangers discovered several bags concealed underneath trees. Upon inspection, the bags were found to contain fresh abalone.
“The section ranger was immediately informed, and an observation post was established in the vicinity of the hidden bags,” the South African National Parks (SANParks) said.
While maintaining observation, a group of suspects returned to the site to retrieve the abalone.
Rangers moved in and successfully apprehended two individuals, while eleven others fled the scene. A follow-up foot patrol, supported by drone operations, was conducted to secure the surrounding area. During this operation, additional bags of abalone and diving equipment were recovered.
In total, 1 000 units of abalone were confiscated. This included 993 units of shucked (out-of-shell) abalone weighing 142.95 kg, and 7 units in-shell weighing 1.35 kg, bringing the combined weight to 144.3 kg.
The two suspects have been arrested and charged under the Marine Living Resources Act (Act No. 18 of 1998), Regulation 36(1)(a), for possession of abalone without a permit. - SAnews.gov.za
