South African Revenue Service (Sars) Customs has seized dried abalone worth R1.6 million, which was hidden in the trailer of a taxi at the Lebombo border.
In a statement, the revenue collector said the intention was to illegally import the abalone into South Africa from Mozambique. It was packed in 21 boxes and weighed 460kg.
The driver of the taxi is currently in the custody of the South African Police Service (Saps), and the abalone has been handed over to Saps for further investigation. When the investigation concludes, Saps will hand over the vehicle to Sars for further customs procedures.
Sars Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said any attempt to use our country as a springboard for illicit activities would be fiercely resisted.