Cape Town – Police have arrested two foreign nationals after seizing 9,439 units of dried abalone during an intelligence-driven operation at a storage facility in Brackenfell.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said members of the Kuilsrivier Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU), together with the Maitland Flying Squad, acted on information about a storage facility in the Brackenfell Industrial area allegedly containing abalone.
“The identified vehicles were spotted and pursued, and the storage facility was searched,” SAPS said.
Police found 9,439 units of dried abalone inside the facility. The value of the consignment has not yet been determined.
Two vehicles, a Hyundai IX35 and a GWM pickup truck, allegedly used in connection with the operation were also seized.
A 49-year-old Chinese national and a 36-year-old Tanzanian national were arrested for allegedly possessing abalone without the required documentation.
SAPS said the suspects were expected to appear in the Kuilsrivier Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 13 August 2026, on the charges.
The Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sizakhele Dyantyi, praised the officers involved in the operation.
SAPS said Dyantyi applauded the members “for their vigilance, outstanding commitment, and dedication” which led to the arrests and seizure of the abalone.
The investigation is continuing.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
