Hawks seize R2.4 million worth of illegal abalone in Eastleigh Ridge bust.
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A routine tip-off turned into a major illegal abalone bust in Eastleigh Ridge, Edendale, as the Hawks, along with the Gauteng Flying Squad and Cape Town Crime Intelligence, dismantled a sophisticated drying operation.
Two men, David Gymah, 38, and Victor Kwane, 48, appeared before the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, February 5, facing charges of illegal possession of abalone.
Their case has been postponed to February 13 for a formal bail application.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Wendy Nkabi, law enforcement received intelligence that led them to a residence in Eastleigh Ridge.
"Upon arrival, the team reportedly found the two accused packing dried abalone into a plastic bag, and they were immediately arrested," said Nkabi.
Further investigations uncovered that the house was more than just a residence, it was a fully functional drying facility.
"Several heaters, fans, and chemical substances were found inside the house," said Nkabi, confirming that the location was used to dry and process abalone before distribution.
The street value of the seized abalone is estimated at R2.4 million.
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