The fight against South Africa’s illegal abalone trade has scored another victory after police recovered more than 1 000 illegally harvested abalone hidden among rocks along the Gqeberha coastline.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says members of the Anti-Gang Unit Combat Team acted on intelligence on Wednesday, leading them to a secluded area near Gate 1 at Noordhoek on Marine Drive. With the help of a diver from a private security company, officers recovered six bags concealed beneath shallow water.

Inside the bags were 1 048 abalone, with an estimated street value of R130 000.

SAPS confirmed that no arrests have been made and their investigations are continuing to track down the suspects involved.

Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Loyiso Ngalo, praised the officers for their swift action, saying every successful operation weakens organised environmental crime.

“Every successful recovery disrupts the illegal wildlife trafficking network and prevents our marine resources from being exploited for criminal gain. We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect South Africa’s natural resources and bring those responsible for environmental crimes to justice.”