On Friday, 16 May 2025, Auxiliary Officers of the Law Enforcement Animal Control Unit acted on a tip-off and intercepted a vehicle in Athlone with the assistance of private security. Inside the vehicle, officers discovered 900 crayfish tails – a clear violation of South Africa’s marine resource protection laws.
The suspect was immediately transported to Athlone SAPS, where he was charged and detained. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) was called in to assist and has taken over the matter for further investigation.
Why this matters
Illegal crayfish poaching is devastating South Africa’s marine ecosystems and undermines lawful fishing communities. The West Coast Rock Lobster (WCRL), commonly known as crayfish, is a protected species and harvesting it is strictly regulated under the Marine Living Resources Act, 1998 (Act No. 18 of 1998). This in conjunction with Abalone, considered a delicacy in East Asia, has already been well documented on the manner in which syndicates use gangs across the Cape flats to guarantee a steady supply into the Chinese black market.
Legal facts:
- It is illegal to catch, be in possession of, or transport crayfish without a valid permit.
- Crayfish may only be caught during the designated season, and only specified amounts are allowed.
- Possession of crayfish tails only (without the heads) is often an attempt to avoid detection and may indicate illegal harvesting.
Poaching isn't just a conservation issue — it's organised crime. The City of Cape Town remains committed to working with all role players, including SAPS, DFFE, and private stakeholders, to protect our natural resources.
A big thank you to the vigilant officers and supporting teams who made this bust possible!
[JPSmith]