Teams of SANParks rangers based at the Table Mountain National Park have pounced on a gang linked to abalone poaching in a successful operation conducted during the long weekend to strengthen safety and enforcement at the natural world heritage site.
The SANParks K9 Unit, working alongside the Sea, Air, Mountain (SEAM) unit last week Thursday, conducted a targeted night operation in the southern section of the park.
Spokesperson of SANParks Peter Mbelengwa said that the operation mainly focused on suspected abalone poacher camp sweeps and gathers ground intelligence.
Suspects handed over to SAPS
“During patrols between Smitswinkel and Black Rocks, K9s successfully tracked suspects, leading to the apprehension of three individuals. A fourth suspect attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended by another member of the K9 unit. While transporting suspects to the South African Police Services [members], the team identified and apprehended two additional individuals linked to abalone poaching activities. All suspects were arrested, poaching equipment was confiscated, and the individuals were handed over to SAPS for further processing,” said Mbelengwa.
He said that in a separate incident at Lion’s Head, SANParks rangers and City Law enforcement also intercepted a suspect attempting to flee after stealing items from a parked vehicle.
“The individual was blocked before leaving the scene, and stolen property was recovered. The suspect admitted to the theft and was handed over to SAPS for processing.”
Mbelengwa also said that in another incident, a tipoff was received of suspected fynbos poaching on Devil’s Peak.
“SANParks Operations Room coordinated and located the suspects and directed Rangers to the scene, resulting in a successful apprehension. These successful operations highlight the continued vigilance and collaboration of enforcement teams in protecting visitors and conserving our natural heritage,” he said.
- SANParks rangers at Table Mountain National Park conducted a successful anti-abalone poaching operation over the long weekend.
- The K9 and SEAM units tracked and arrested seven suspects linked to abalone poaching, confiscating poaching equipment.
- In a separate incident at Lion’s Head, rangers and City Law enforcement apprehended a suspect fleeing after vehicle theft, recovering stolen items.
- Another tip-off led to the arrest of suspects involved in fynbos poaching on Devil’s Peak.
- These operations demonstrate effective collaboration among enforcement teams to protect natural heritage and ensure visitor safety.
Teams of SANParks rangers based at the Table Mountain National Park have pounced on a gang linked to abalone poaching in a successful operation conducted during the long weekend to strengthen safety and enforcement at the natural world heritage site.
Spokesperson of SANParks Peter
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He said that in a separate incident at Lion's Head, SANParks rangers and City Law enforcement also intercepted a suspect attempting to flee after stealing items from a parked vehicle.
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“SANParks Operations Room coordinated and located the suspects and directed
