A coordinated anti-poaching operation in Tsitsikamma has led to the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of more than 144kg of illegal abalone, highlighting South Africa’s ongoing struggle against marine wildlife crime.
According to South African National Parks (SANParks), rangers uncovered several bags of freshly harvested abalone hidden beneath trees during a patrol in the area.
After discovering the concealed stash, rangers established an observation point nearby and monitored the site.
Their wait paid off when a group of 13 suspects later returned to collect the illegal haul.
SANParks spokesperson JP Louw said rangers moved swiftly to intercept the group.
“Rangers moved in and successfully apprehended two individuals, while 11 others fled the scene,” Louw said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Drones help uncover more hidden abalone and diving gear
Following the arrests, rangers continued searching the surrounding area on foot, supported by drone surveillance.
The extended search resulted in the discovery of additional bags of abalone as well as diving equipment believed to have been used in the poaching operation.
Authorities confiscated a total of 1000 units of abalone weighing 144.3kg.
Most of the seized stock — 993 units — consisted of shucked abalone removed from their shells, while the remaining seven units were found intact.
The scale of the seizure reflects the continued pressure illegal harvesting places on South Africa’s already vulnerable abalone populations.
Illegal trade continues to threaten marine resources
Abalone poaching remains one of South Africa’s most serious wildlife trafficking crimes.
A 2025 report by TRAFFIC warned that sustained poaching and trafficking activities have pushed wild abalone populations close to collapse.
The report also linked the trade to organised criminal networks and worsening socio-economic conditions in coastal communities.
According to the report’s author, Oliver Wright, approximately 4000 tons of abalone were poached in South Africa during 2024 alone.
It further estimated that roughly 67% of all abalone exports from South Africa since 2000 may have originated from illegal harvesting.
Traffickers often conceal or falsely declare shipments to avoid detection when goods leave the country, while document fraud and laundering typically occur before products reach international markets.
This makes it difficult for customs authorities abroad to verify whether shipments are legally sourced.
The two suspects arrested in the Tsitsikamma operation are currently being held at the Plettenberg Bay police station.
Under the Marine Living Resources Act, possession of abalone without a valid permit is a criminal offence.
Those found guilty may face fines of up to 500,000 rand or imprisonment for up to two years.
SANParks acknowledged the support of multiple law enforcement agencies involved in the operation, including Storms River SAPS, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), and Border Police.
The raid comes amid increased efforts by South African authorities to combat marine poaching networks that continue to target high-value seafood species for illegal export markets, particularly in Asia.
Source: SANParks / TRAFFIC Report / South African Marine Living Resources Act
