“If this continues any longer, the conservation areas in the Overberg could suffer…”
This is the sentiment of the Freedom Front Plus after it came to light that the Overstrand Municipality and CapeNature are allegedly doing nothing about illegal hunting in the protected areas. The Overberg forms part of the internationally recognised Unesco Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, which is world-renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, unique fynbos and valuable wildlife.
In a press statement, the Freedom Front Plus asks the Overstrand Municipality and CapeNature that they must act against the increasing use of illegal dog hunting and wire snares in the Overstrand and Overberg.
According to them, the failure to address the problem could have adverse consequences. “Despite numerous engagements with the municipality and CapeNature, after nearly two years there is still no comprehensive strategy to address this serious crisis,” they said in a statement. “According to them wire snares and dog hunting claim the lives of small buck, porcupines, caracals, tortoises, hares, mongooses and numerous other species.” This places further pressure on already vulnerable wildlife populations and threatens the ecological balance of the area. Illegal access roads, the trampling of sensitive vegetation and disturbance of breeding areas cause further damage to this unique ecosystem,” they said.
They also request that the OM and CapeNature publicly announce an action plan within 30 days that includes, among other things, the following: Increased patrols in known problem areas.
What they are proposing is:
• A joint operational plan between CapeNature, the municipality, the police and environmental organisations.
• Regular removal of wire snares.
• Strict prosecution of offenders.
• An accessible public reporting system.
• Adequate financial and human resources for conservation enforcement.
• Educational programmes on the legal and ecological consequences of illegal hunting.
According to them the Overstrand Municipality already has a specialised law enforcement unit with trained dogs used for the detection of abalone and drugs. “These resources could also be deployed to combat illegal hunting and wildlife poaching.”
The party further requests that a public meeting be held within 60 days at which the municipality and CapeNature can inform residents about the steps that will be taken, how many cases have already been investigated, how many successful prosecutions have taken place, and what resources are being made available for the protection of the area.
According to CapeNature this matter is being addressed with CapeNature’s partners and stakeholders, including municipal law enforcement, Grabouw police, DFFE, surrounding landowners, and neighbourhood watch groups. “These transgressions affect both the Overstrand and Overberg municipal areas, and CapeNature is working with partners to reduce incidents and apprehend offenders.”.
Further to this:
• Patrols have been increased in identified hotspots.
• Joint operations have taken place and will continue with relevant partners.
• Snares are removed when found during patrols and operations.
• The remaining points raised are being workshopped.
