CRIME SCENE: Hout Bay, Cape Town: A man has been arrested and illicit marine resources valued at R500 000 confiscated in a raid at a house.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) the Anti-Economic Crime Task Team and Counterfeit and Illicit Policing Team did a crime intelligence driven operation which led to the arrest of a 38-year-old man on Monday, 21 September 2026 at 04:30.

“A large quantity of lobsters, abalone, prawns and lobster eggs with an estimated street value of R500 000-00 hidden in a big freezer were found. Diving equipment and a scale were also found and confiscated. 

“The suspect failed to give a valid reason for being in possession of the marine resources and was arrested on charges of contravention of the Marine Living Resource Act.

“The Department of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and Environment were called to the scene, and all the exhibits were counted and confirmed by them,” said SAPS.