Abalone poaching is alive and well with poachers continuing to rape our marine environment.
The past few weeks saw an increase in poaching activities in the Overberg, Kleinmond, Cape Point, around Robben Island, Melkbos and along the West Coast.
The 140 km Overberg coastline is hugely understaffed and little resources are available to curb this environmental crime. According to sources close to law enforcement agencies, poacher numbers have more than doubled in recent weeks and they are facing an enormous owerpowering number of criminals.
“This is a multi-level challenge and incorporates a general lawlessness in the country which goes beyond abalone poaching. A major part of this problem is the ridiculous sentences imposed on convicted poachers by our courts. it has no effect on their activities and it is usually business as usual within a day or two after bail has been granted.”
Reports such as these are familiar:
17:32 o6/12/2022: Divers, full kit, blue fins in the water at Blousloep (Franskraal).
18:59, 06/12/2022 Kleinbaai: The following vehicles are involved in poaching activities – Grey Toyota bakkie with a grey canopy and white rimmed tyres – CF 240678, Red Toyota Tazz with goldend mag rims – Cem 43385.
It seems as if they gather in front of the Buygon pawn shop next to Build It at 16:00 and plan their operations from there.
19:09, 06/12/2022: It is currently very busy at Bloubaai (Blue Water Bay, Pearly Beach). Boats from Hawston and Buffeljachts are in the water. Last night it looked like the N2 as the were racing up and down to take divers to sea.
19:21, 06/12/2022: Bring in the special forces – they should sort this out.
22:21, 06/12/2022: What special forces?