Key Points
- Police seized abalone worth nearly R1.9 million in Douglas.
- Five suspects, including foreign nationals, were arrested at the scene.
- Vehicles linked to the crime were also confiscated during the operation.
Five suspects arrested for illegal possession of abalone in Douglas
Police are set to arraign five suspects in a Northern Cape court following the Northern Cape abalone seizure at a farmhouse in Douglas. Officers confiscated abalone worth nearly R1.9 million during the raid. The suspects include two Malawian nationals and three Chinese nationals. Police arrested them on charges of illegal possession of abalone.
Authorities uncover hidden abalone during raid
Provincial police spokesperson, Col. Cherelle Ehlers, said the Provincial Organised Crime Investigations Unit launched an operation on Saturday, April 26. The officers acted after receiving intelligence about suspicious activities at the property. They conducted a thorough search and found several containers filled with a significant quantity of abalone.
“The team acted swiftly on the information received and successfully uncovered the abalone hidden on the premises,” Ehlers said. She added that the officers arrested the suspects, whose ages range from 18 to 60, on-site without incident.
Moreover, authorities said that the Department of Home Affairs will assist in verifying the immigration status of the arrested individuals. The South African Police Service, working closely with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, valued the confiscated abalone at approximately R1,970,829.
Police seize vehicles as investigation continues
In addition to the abalone, officers seized several key exhibits during the raid. These included two vehicles — a Toyota Hilux bakkie and a Nissan NP200 — which they believe the suspects used during the commission of the crime.
Acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Luntu Ngubelanga praised the officers involved for their effective response. Furthermore, he emphasized that the police will vigorously pursue crimes affecting marine resources and will ensure that offenders face the full extent of the law.
“The South African Police Service remains committed to dismantling organized crime networks and protecting our natural resources,” Ngubelanga said.
Meanwhile, police confirmed that investigations are ongoing following the Northern Cape abalone seizure. Officers continue working to uncover the full extent of the illegal operation. Their swift and coordinated effort highlights a determined focus on combating environmental crimes across the province.
