Table Mountain National Park has recorded multiple arrests linked to house burglaries and illegal poaching after a coordinated operational weekend, according to South African National Parks (SANParks).

Joint Crackdown in Vredehoek

In Vredehoek, SANParks said a planned joint operation led to the arrest of two suspects linked to a series of residential burglaries. The operation involved SANParks rangers and the TMNP Sea, Air and Mountain (SEAM) Unit and TMNP K9 Unit, as well as the South African Police Service (SAPS) and a private landowner.

SANParks spokesperson for the Cape region Lauren Howard Clayton said intelligence indicated the suspects were using mountain routes to access residential areas and to escape afterwards. During an early morning operation on 25 January, both suspects were apprehended while in possession of stolen property, with TMNP K9 Leah assisting in one of the arrests.

Clayton said SAPS has since linked the suspects to multiple burglary cases in the area.

Illegal Diving Bust at Smitswinkel Bay

In a separate operation at Smitswinkel Bay, SANParks said officials 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 about 1,150 shucked abalone, along with diving equipment.

SANParks said the suspect was handed over to Simon’s Town SAPS, where a case was opened.

What SANParks Wants From Hikers and Residents

SANParks says these operations show the value of intelligence-led, multi-agency collaboration to protect nearby communities and the park’s marine and terrestrial resources. The parks agency has urged visitors and residents to report suspicious activity or safety concerns.