The MEC for North West Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Rural Development (DACERD), Boitumelo Tshwene has issued a stern warning to poachers and prospective poachers in the province, saying their time of hunting and transporting conservation products without valid permits is over.
The department's dynamic intent to put an end to these illegal activities was evident during the recent roadblock manned by the conservation officials from the DACERD, the South Africa Police Service and the provincial traffic department on the Ottoshoop road to Zeerust.
"The department is continuing to record cases of which protected wild plants are illegally collected or possessed and protected animals are equally unlawfully hunted and transported, and we are ready to vigorously deal with these lawbreakers," confirmed MEC Boitumelo Tshwene.
During the roadblock all vehicles were examined for roadworthiness, drivers' licenses checked, as well as searching of illegal transportation of protected species and material or any act of poaching.
"Although nothing suspicious or illegal was discovered during that roadblock, the Department is confident that the message has been sent. We will be on the lookout for anything that equals nature conservation transgression, and all offenders will face the fate of the law," expressed Mr Tshepo Moremi, Chief Director for Environmental Services.
MEC Boitumelo Tshwene urges game rangers and members of the public to assist by alerting law enforcement agencies as soon as they witness any suspicious poacher or poaching activity in their areas.
Poaching is the third highest illegal trade in the world after guns and drugs and continues to hamper the wildlife economic industry in the province and across the country.
Enquiries:
Bonolo Mohlakoana
Tel: 018 389 5346/5768
Fax: 018 384 4571
E-mail: Bmohlakoana@nwpg.gov.za
