In South Africa, as fisheries management continues to move through a transformation
process, it is confronted with a myriad of uncertain scenarios which have the potential
to jeopardize its objectives. One such situation, which has proved to be threatening to
the sustainable utilization of marine resources, is illegal exploitation. In recent years,
South Africa has witnessed an increase in poaching activities, with a particular
emphasis on the lucrative abalone industry. This fishery has existed successfully for
almost 50 years, with an average annual catch in the past 10 years of 615 tonnes.
Dramatic cuts in the total allowable catch since late 1996, with up to 90% reductions
in key areas, have placed the long-term sustainability of the fishery in question. A
criminological study of abalone poaching in a community where both the legal and
illegal industries are centred has clearly illustrated both the severity and the complexity
of the problem. Negative ramifications have spread through several spheres, incorporating
environmental, social, economic, and political dynamics. From the perspective
of the community, where poaching is rife, this study highlights the impact poaching
has had on a local level, representing significant obstacles for successful fisheries
management. The de-legitimization of regulations, the mistrust and corruption of
authorities, the bitter and often violent conflict between resource users and the
increased fear within the community exacerbate the challenges for cooperative
management structures. Although there has been a historic reliance on law enforcement
and crime control to address the problem of illegal exploitation, it has been
recognized that a shift in governance needs to take place. However, such a shift will
require extreme measures that consider the broad issues discussed above.