Cape Town law enforcement authorities have made two significant arrests in separate marine resource protection operations, seizing hundreds of illegally harvested abalone and West Coast rock lobster products.
The City of Cape Town’s Marine and Environmental Unit, working alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS) Gordon’s Bay and GBSEC Armed Response, intercepted a vehicle along Clarence Drive in Gordon’s Bay on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, after receiving intelligence about suspected illegal abalone transport.
Law Enforcement spokesperson Wayne Dyason said officers stopped and searched the vehicle and discovered 743 units of abalone believed to have been unlawfully harvested and transported.
“Two suspects, a male and a female, were arrested and charged under the Marine Living Resources Act. The abalone was seized as evidence, while the suspects were detained for further processing.”
In a separate operation on Saturday, 20 June 2026, Marine and Environmental Unit officers acted on information about illegal West Coast rock lobster sales at a property in Sherwood Park, Manenberg.
Dyason said upon arrival, officers gained access to the premises and discovered 720 West Coast rock lobster tails. The man at the property was unable to provide any documentation proving legal possession and was arrested.
“He was charged under the Marine Living Resources Act for possession without a permit, as well as for possessing lobster tails that were not in whole form, which is prohibited under the legislation.”
Dyason said community involvement continues to play a crucial role in tackling marine crime.
“We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity related to the illegal trade of marine resources. Members of the public are urged to report such incidents on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline. The City of Cape Town offers a reward of up to R5,000 for information leading to a successful enforcement outcome.”
