One suspect was arrested on the Lion’s Head section of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) after he was found in possession of a firearm earlier this week.
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In a coordinated operation during the early hours of Thursday morning, the Sea, Air, and Mountain (SEAM) special operations rangers and its canine unit, alongside the Visitor Safety Rangers, City of Cape Town (CoCT) Tourism Unit, drone contractor, and the CBCSI local security company, conducted a sting operation along Lion’s Head.
The suspect, merely 5 meters away from one of the SEAM operators with the canine, was spotted on the Jeep Track.
The quick response following the release of the SEAM canine, Leah, was pivotal in pursuing the suspect, eventually apprehending him.
Once the suspect was detained, a knife was found in the suspects possession, as well as a realistic looking imitation firearm.
The CoCT provided valuable support, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) promptly arrived to assist in the arrest procedures.
This success showcases the valuable role of the Intel Interpretation team of the TMNPs Operations Room who played a critical role in developing this joint operation which was tried and tested for many months and has concluded in successful apprehension of the suspect.
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This also marks a significant milestone in ensuring the safety of park visitors, underscoring the effectiveness of collaborative law enforcement efforts by the newly reestablished Table Mountain Safety Forum.
Meanwhile, mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith has called on anyone who believes that they may have fallen prey to the suspect to come forward.
‘If any person has been attacked or threatened by a knife wielding or armed gunman, in the park over recent months, please contact the investigating officer at Cape Town Central SAPS urgently,’ he posted on Facebook.
‘If you can correctly identify the attacker in a photo lineup, we can successfully link him to additional charges.’
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Also read:
Friends of Table Mountain launches petition to stop crime in TMNP
Picture: Supplied/ SANParks
