Latest news with #NatureConservationOrdinance19of1974
IOL News
08-07-2025
- IOL News
Hawks and SAPS K9 Unit thwart rhino horn trafficking in Swellendam
In a significant bust against wildlife crime, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks), alongside the SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg, and Stock Theft and Endangered Species officials, executed an undercover operation on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, at Buffeljags River, located on the N2 route outside Swellendam. This operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects, who were found in possession of a substantial quantity of rhino horn, engaging in a transaction to sell the illicit product. During the operation, law enforcement recovered three rhino horns valued at R258,270, wrapping up a meticulous investigation that underscores South Africa's ongoing battle against the illicit wildlife trade. The suspects, all originating from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, have been charged with alleged contraventions under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974, specifically relating to possession and sale of wildlife products without the necessary permits. The case against the accused — Shaun Barties (41), Christopher Farret (35), and Cheslyn Whitebooi (45) — was brought before the Swellendam Magistrates Court on Friday, 4 July 2025, where it was postponed until 11 July for bail application, with all three suspects remanded into custody.
IOL News
08-07-2025
- IOL News
Hawks and SAPS K9 Unit thwart rhino horn trafficking in Swellendam
In a significant bust against wildlife crime, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks), alongside the SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg, and Stock Theft and Endangered Species officials, executed an undercover operation on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, at Buffeljags River, located on the N2 route outside Swellendam. This operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects, who were found in possession of a substantial quantity of rhino horn, engaging in a transaction to sell the illicit product. During the operation, law enforcement recovered three rhino horns valued at R258,270, wrapping up a meticulous investigation that underscores South Africa's ongoing battle against the illicit wildlife trade. The suspects, all originating from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, have been charged with alleged contraventions under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974, specifically relating to possession and sale of wildlife products without the necessary permits. The case against the accused — Shaun Barties (41), Christopher Farret (35), and Cheslyn Whitebooi (45) — was brought before the Swellendam Magistrates Court on Friday, 4 July 2025, where it was postponed until 11 July for bail application, with all three suspects remanded into custody.
Time Out
23-06-2025
- General
- Time Out
Rogue Cape baboon safely rescued
The Southern Suburbs community can rest easy following the news that a rogue Cape baboon, who had authorities on their toes last Friday, is now safely back on his home turf. Cape of Good Hope SPCA Communications Manager Belinda Abraham confirmed the successful rescue endeavour over the weekend after a "tense day of tracking and multiple evasions." "We're relieved to share a positive outcome for the young dispersing male baboon spotted in Claremont and surrounding areas. Our team, working alongside the Cape Baboon Partnership and a wildlife veterinarian, returned to the area where he had slept the previous night. The baboon was successfully darted, given a full health assessment, and is en route to be safely released into his natural roaming territory." "This outcome gives him the best chance to continue his natural dispersal without facing the many dangers posed by urban environments. Baboons do not belong in residential areas. Urban spaces are filled with threats: roads, fences, domestic pets, and people. While sightings may seem exciting, these moments are stressful and dangerous for wildlife," said Abraham. "A heartfelt thank you to the community for your cooperation and care, and to every member of the response team who worked tirelessly to ensure his safety. If you see a wild animal in distress, please contact the SPCA at 021 700 4158/9. Baboons remain protected under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. It is illegal to harm, harass, or interfere with them," she added. While this chap didn't quite stir the same attention as Gordy the Elephant seal, the ordeal does highlight the interplay between nature and urban habitat encroachment - with baboon sightings more frequent in certain areas around Cape Town than in others. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@ What to do if You Spot a Baboon: Keep a respectful distance of at least 20 metres. Do not approach it or try to take close-up photos. Avoid forming crowds - this can stress or corner the animal. Do not block roads or interfere with the work of authorities onsite. On the Road: If you see the baboon near a road, slow down and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Be mindful not to box the animal in or cause panic by following closely. At Home: Keep dogs indoors while the baboon is in the area. Leave doors and windows open only if secured with gates or bars. Store bins inside a garage or enclosed area — baboons are opportunistic feeders. To report sightings or for assistance:
