SANParks rangers have successfully disrupted a significant illegal abalone poaching operation within the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area (MPA) resulting in the arrest of two suspects, the recovery of large quantities of abalone and the seizure of diving equipment used in the illicit activity.
The operation unfolded on 13 April 2026 at approximately 16:00 during a routine patrol conducted by rangers in the vicinity of the western side of the Bloukrans River near the Clinton area. While moving through the area rangers discovered several bags concealed beneath trees. Upon inspection the bags were found to contain freshly harvested abalone.
The section ranger was immediately informed and a tactical observation post was established nearby to monitor any further activity. Rangers maintained discreet surveillance of the site in anticipation of the suspects returning to recover the concealed contraband.
Their vigilance was rewarded when a group of suspects returned to retrieve the hidden bags. Rangers moved in swiftly, successfully apprehending two individuals at the scene. A further eleven suspects managed to flee into surrounding terrain.
A coordinated follow-up operation was immediately launched involving foot patrols supported by drone surveillance to secure the broader area and locate additional suspects. During the search rangers recovered more bags of abalone as well as diving equipment believed to have been used in the illegal harvesting operation.
In total authorities confiscated 1,000 units of abalone. This included 993 shucked abalone weighing 142.95 kg and seven in-shell abalone weighing 1.35 kg bringing the combined total weight to 144.3 kg. The scale of the seizure highlights the ongoing pressure placed on marine resources within protected coastal zones.
The two arrested suspects have been charged under the Marine Living Resources Act (Act No. 18 of 1998) Regulation 36(1)(a) for possession of abalone without a permit. They are currently detained at Plettenberg Bay Police Station and are expected to appear in court once formal charges are finalised.
SANParks has commended the coordinated response between its ranger teams, Storms River SAPS, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and Border Police. The collaboration between agencies was instrumental in both the arrests and the recovery of evidence on the scene.
Authorities have noted that abalone poaching remains a persistent environmental crime in the region often linked to organised illicit supply networks. The use of drones and coordinated patrols continues to play an increasingly important role in detection, tracking and rapid response operations within the Tsitsikamma MPA.
SANParks reaffirmed its commitment to protecting South Africa’s marine biodiversity and maintaining strict enforcement within all marine protected areas emphasising that ongoing joint operations will continue to target and disrupt illegal harvesting activities along the coastline.
