Ep 2. Illicit Abalone

In season 1 episode 2 of BLACK MARKET, titled "Illicit Abalone," the focus is on the underground market for this rare and expensive delicacy. Abalone, a type of sea snail, is highly sought after in many cultures for its unique flavor and texture. However, due to overfishing and habitat destruction, abalone populations have plummeted in recent years, leading to a huge demand for illegally obtained abalone.

The episode follows a group of divers in South Africa who risk their lives to harvest abalone from protected waters, which they sell to buyers on the black market. We see firsthand the dangerous and physically demanding process of diving for abalone, as the divers must contend with rough waves, treacherous currents, and the ever-present threat of sharks.

Meanwhile, we also meet the buyers who purchase the illegal abalone and transport it to markets in Asia, where it can fetch top dollar. These buyers work in secrecy, using code words and encrypted messaging apps to avoid detection by law enforcement.

As the episode unfolds, we learn about the complex web of corruption and violence that surrounds the illicit abalone trade. We see how organized crime syndicates control much of the market, using intimidation and violence to keep their operations under wraps.

At the same time, we also see the impact that the trade is having on local communities. The decline in abalone populations has led to job losses and economic hardship for many coastal residents, while the illegal trade is fueling crime and instability in the region.

Ultimately, "Illicit Abalone" is a gripping and eye-opening exploration of one of the world's most lucrative and dangerous black markets. Through its vivid and intimate portrayal of the people involved in the trade, the episode exposes the human toll of a lucrative yet destructive industry.