TMNP operations lead to arrests as community reacts online

Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), working alongside several law enforcement partners, recorded an operational weekend that resulted in multiple arrests linked to house burglaries and illegal poaching activities.

According to a statement issued by South African National Parks (SANParks) on Monday, January 26, a planned joint operation in the Vredehoek area led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be involved in a series of residential burglaries.

The operation involved TMNP’s Sea, Air, Mountain (SEAM) Unit, the TMNP K9 Unit, SANParks rangers, a private landowner, and the police.

Authorities said intelligence revealed that the suspects had allegedly been using mountain routes to gain access to residential properties and to escape after committing crimes.

During an early-morning operation on Saturday, January 24, the suspects were apprehended and found in possession of stolen property. TMNP K9 Leah assisted officers during one of the arrests. 

In a separate operation at Smitswinkel Bay, TMNP SEAM and K9 units responded to reports of illegal diving activity.

One suspect was arrested and found in possession of 11 bags of illegal abalone, including 72 whole abalone and approximately 1,150 shucked abalone, as well as diving equipment.

The suspect was handed over to Simon’s Town police, where a case was opened, said the statement.

SANParks said the operations demonstrate TMNP’s continued commitment to protecting surrounding communities while preserving the park’s marine and terrestrial resources through intelligence-driven, multi-agency collaboration.

The statement has since sparked mixed reactions on social media.

Some commenters criticised the operations, claiming that it was “about time officers were doing their jobs”, while others praised officers for their efforts in tackling crime and poaching in and around the park.

SANParks has urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity, safety concerns, or incidents to law enforcement authorities.

Reports can be made to the police by calling the emergency number 086 110 6417 or by visiting the nearest police station to open a case.

Officials emphasised that community reporting plays a vital role in enabling swift intervention and reducing crime in areas such as Table Mountain National Park.