More than 50 poaching incidents have been recorded since December, as authorities and community groups intensify efforts to curb wildlife crime.

The Dolphin Coast Anti-Poaching Forum (DCAPF) presented its latest report last Tuesday at Simbithi Country Club, highlighting the prevalence of illegal hunting and environmental crime.

The forum is a public-private partnership operating across a 52 000ha region, with support from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the SPCA and private security companies.

Since its launch in December 2025, the DCAPF has responded to 52 incidents, including illegal hunting with dogs, river gill-netting and marine poaching. More than 600m of illegal nets have been removed.

Over five months, members intercepted, confiscated or dispersed more than 150 dogs and over 70 poachers, while preventing multiple illegal shellfish and fishing attempts.

Figures show incidents peaked in December and January before declining steadily to April. Most cases were on land, with some marine and aquatic activity recorded.

The forum aims to improve public awareness, strengthen collaboration with authorities and build a reliable database to support law enforcement.

Despite progress, challenges remain.

“The biggest challenge is the vast area of operations. We have limited manpower, resources, specialised equipment and, most importantly, authority,” said a spokesperson, who asked to remain anonymous due to the dangerous nature of the work.

Efforts are now focused on recruiting volunteers as honorary officers with DFFE and Ezemvelo, expanding targeted operations and securing equipment such as drones and camera traps.

“This public-private partnership model is key to the success we’ve had,” she said.

For more information contact 076 686 0176 or email dcapforum@gmail.com.