Alleged Jeffreys Bay poacher apprehended at Nature's Valley

Whilst on patrol, the South African National Parks (SANParks) rangers at Garden Route National Park stationed at Nature’s Valley, Tsitsikamma, were able to apprehend one of four poaching suspects on March 30. 

According to JP Louw, SANParks head of communications, after noticing the patrol underway, four divers came out from the sea and started running. 

"Rangers immediately called for back-up, and a prompt response of additional rangers, South African Police Service (SAPS) Plettenberg Bay, and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Gqeberha led to the apprehension of one suspect after a chase,” said Louw. 

He said that unfortunately, the other three suspects ran into the thicker forest area, which made it difficult to continue their pursuit. 

“The suspect who is from Jeffreys Bay has been detained at SAPS Plettenberg Bay Station with 34 kg of abalone with an estimated street value of R62 333.22,” said Louw. 

He said that SANParks encourages the public to report any suspicious activities that may threaten wildlife and protected areas.