The Hawks have stopped skelmsfrom operating their abalone drying facility after seizing R3.9 million worth of the expensive seafood in Hermanus.
Zheniang Wu, 32, and David Jonas, 20, were arrested on 6 August after an intense crime intelligence investigation by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) officials.
The duo made their first appearance at the Hermanus Magistrates’ Court on 8 August and will be back in the dock on Wednesday.
They have been remanded in custody.
Captain Philani Nkwalase says their team found wet and dried abalone valued at over R3.9m at a facility in Protea Park in Hermanus.
“Zhengiang Wu and David Jonas appeared at Hermanus Magistrates’ Court last week Thursday facing a charge of operating an illicit abalone drying facility.
“They were arrested on 6 August in a joint operation undertaken by members of the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team in alliance with Crime Intelligence, as well as Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (Daff) officials.
“The Hawks-led team uncovered a fully operational illicit abalone drying facility in Protea Park, Hermanus.
“Wet and dried abalone valued over R3.9 million was seized.
“The case against the duo was postponed to 14 August for bail information and both suspects remain in custody.”