News

South African National Parks (SANParks) is pleased to announce an encouraging development in the fight against bark stripping in Newlands Forest within the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
A successful operation led by the TMNP Sea, Air and Mountain (SEAM) Special Operations Rangers, resulted in the arrest of three bark strippers who were caught in the act of stripping trees in Newlands Forest at 1:15 AM, on 18 April 2023.

The team had been in the Newlands area as part of an extended operation to combat illegal bark stripping. The Rangers were able to ambush the bark strippers and seized four bags of bark, which lead to the arrests. The three suspects are currently in police custody and have been charged in terms of the National Environment Protected Areas (NEM:PA) Act 57 of 2003 for their actions. “They’re expected to appear in court at the earliest convenience and it is our hope that they will share more information on other members operating in the area,” said Megan Taplin, TMNP Park Manager.

Taplin expressed pride in the team’s work, stating that this is a great example of the dedication and bravery of our rangers, who put themselves in harm’s way to protect our natural heritage. Very well done to all involved and your tireless efforts indeed paid off. It should be noted that the recent arrest is not a once-off operation and that TMNP is serious about the protection of our natural heritage.

TMNP would like to urge the public to continue helping us in the fight against environmental crime and report any suspicious activity on 086 110 6417.