To boost safety in and around the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), the South African National Parks (SANParks) deployed one of its helicopters, which led to the arrest of a suspected criminal.
JP Louw, SANParks head of communications, said the deployment was part of the organisation’s fleet at the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga and forms part of a range of progressive interventions, such as the recently-announced expansion of the specialised Sea, Air, Mountain (Seam) operators.
“The SANParks helicopter both serves as a visible deterrent and ensures a rapid response to any potential threats or incidents. The helicopter’s first flight recorded success on its first day of arrival.
“Through a coordinated operation of the aerial and ground team a suspicious-looking person was found carrying a knife in the park. The ground team managed to apprehend the suspect after a chase…”
He said aerial operations had consistently proven successful during high visitor periods. Louw added the national park is open to all between sunrise and sunset, and visitors should be responsible, travel in groups in gear for terrain and weather.
