Collaborative patrol successful

By Mandisi Tyulu
19 August 2008

Officials from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism’s marine and coastal management division and the South African National Parks this week arrested four alleged poachers in the Cape Point area during a joint enforcement patrol.

A total of two-thousand-616 abalone was confiscated and one vehicle was seized. Abalone shucking tools and four sets of diving equipment including snorkels and flippers were also confiscated.

The first arrest happened around 17:00; yesterday 17 September 2008, near Smitswinkel Bay after the suspect was spotted in the area. A total of 122 abalone was confiscated.

In a separate incident at 6:00 this morning, 18 September 2008 another person was arrested near the Simons Town police station after officials inspected a vehicle and found a total of 1800 abalone. The vehicle was also confiscated.

An hour later, at 7:00 this morning, three alleged poachers were arrested in the Cape Point area after observations were made of illegal diving activities. A total of 694 abalone was confiscated.

City of Cape Town’s Carol Moses says all suspects are held at the Simon Town police station and are expected to appear in the Simons Town Magistrate court on poaching-related charges.