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18 December 2007

Media Release: TMNP marine Seizes 121 Perlemoen and 3 Crayfish in Sandy Bay

Cape Town, 15 December 2007 – Routine Marine Protected Area (MPA) patrols by the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) marine rangers led to the seizure of a vessel with 121 perlemoen (abalone) and 3 crayfish (West Coast Rock Lobster) and a vehicle during this evening (Saturday, 15 December 2007).

TMNP marine rangers observed a boat on Sandy Bay, which is part of the MPA skippered by a suspected poacher and around 18h00 this evening. The team gave chase and the three occupants of the boat ran away.

TMNP Marine seized the 121 perlemoen and 3 crayfish found on board and vehicle belonging to the poachers. The poachers live in Hout Bay and they are known to the TMNP. A case will be opened by the SAPS Hout Bay and the police will further investigate the matter.

“This was another example of great teamwork between the TMNP, Marine Coastal Management (MCM), SAPS Hout Bay and the SAPS diving unit,” says Robin Adams, TMNP marine operations manager.

Adams says his team will be in full force during the festive season and urges members of the public to report poaching of marine resources by calling TMNP’s marine’s 24 hours a day, seven days a week hotline at 021 786 5656.

The Cape peninsula MPA was established in 2004 and covers 142km between Mouille Point and Muizenberg. To date, the TMNP marine team has arrested over 280 individuals for poaching activities.

For further information, please contact:

Robin Adams, marine operations manager, Table Mountain National Park.

Cell 082 923 1389

Phumeza Mgxashe, communications manager, Table Mountain National Park.

Cell: 083 589 8588