An intelligence-driven enforcement operation conducted by South African National Parks (SANParks) Environmental Crime Investigation (ECI) unit has resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals for attempted abalone poaching in the Cape Point section of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
The operation, carried out on the evening of Tuesday, 9 June 2026, formed part of follow-up actions linked to an ongoing major investigation into illegal marine resource exploitation. During the operation, two suspicious vehicles were intercepted and searched.
A significant quantity of diving equipment was discovered, indicating preparations for illegal abalone harvesting within the protected area.
The 12 suspects, who were en route to the Cape Point section of TMNP, were arrested and detained at Simon’s Town SAPS. All diving equipment was seized. A criminal case has been registered.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Simon’s Town Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 11 June 2026.
This operation is regarded as a major success, effectively preventing a coordinated group from entering a national park to carry out illegal poaching activities. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by law enforcement authorities to combat environmental crime and protect South Africa’s marine resources.
12 Suspects Arrested for Attempted Abalone Poaching in Cape Pointhttps://t.co/OX0HaFjHgw#ArriveAlive #Crime #Abalone @SANParks pic.twitter.com/mzBvSgDiUf
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) June 11, 2026
