OVERBERG MUNICIPALITY:- Law enforcement authorities have had an eventful week, cracking down on illicit trade and poaching activities in the Overberg region.
Coordinated efforts between various agencies led to major busts, with contraband worth millions confiscated and several arrests made.
Illicit Cigarette Bust in Hermanus
At the start of March 2025, a joint operation in Hermanus resulted in the confiscation of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R770,000. The operation was executed through a well-coordinated effort between the Overberg District Municipality’s operational team, Customs, and Overstrand Municipal Law Enforcement.
The foreign nationals implicated in the illegal trade are now in the hands of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and enforcement teams within the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the smuggling network.
Massive Crayfish Poaching Crackdown
Authorities also intensified their efforts against the illegal poaching of West Coast Rock Lobster (WCRL), commonly known as crayfish. On 28 February 2025, a high-impact operation was carried out in Hawston by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), CapeNature, Overstrand Municipal Law Enforcement K9 Unit, and the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit.
Hawston Raids Uncover Over R1.7 Million in Illicit Crayfish Tails
At one location, officers arrested an individual in possession of 1,059 WCRL tails, with an estimated market value of R529,500.
Meanwhile, a second premises yielded an even larger discovery—2,036 abandoned WCRL tails were seized, estimated to be worth R1.18 million. Law enforcement officials believe this operation has struck a significant blow against organized poaching syndicates operating in the region.
Continued Crackdowns Expected
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to dismantling illicit operations, warning that further raids and arrests are imminent. The Overstrand region remains under close surveillance as enforcement teams work tirelessly to protect South Africa’s natural resources and combat illegal trade.