An intelligence-driven operation conducted by the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environmental Investigation Unit, resulted in the arrest of two individuals— a 38-year-old Zimbabwean national and a 34-year-old Malawian national— for the possession of abalone on Wednesday, 13 November 2024.

Acting on a tip-off, officers were informed of a truck loaded with abalone, en route to Gauteng. The information was swiftly operationalized, leading the team to the Wellington industrial area, where they located the truck. Upon searching the vehicle, they discovered 567.40 kilograms of abalone concealed in black bags, the SAPS said.

Further investigation led authorities to a Volkswagen Caddy, where an additional 463.89 kilograms of abalone were found. The combined haul has an estimated street value of R7 million.

The suspects are set to appear in the Wellington Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 15 November 2024, facing charges related to the possession of abalone.