CapeNature welcomes the conviction of Cape Town couple for wildlife crime
CapeNature welcomes the sentence imposed by the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Mr Zirkie Bernardus Jansen and Mrs Valerie Gayle Simpson-Jansen of Kirstenhof following their conviction on multiple offences relating to the unlawful keeping, possession and transport of reptiles.
The couple were each sentenced on 30 July 2026 to pay a fine of R40 000 or serve 18 months’ imprisonment after being convicted on seven counts under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974.
The convictions arose from offences committed during March 2022 involving the unlawful keeping and transport of 95 reptile specimens, including crested geckos, new Caledonian geckos, gargoyle geckos and ball pythons without the required permits and authorisations.
Two Ball Pythons found during the execution of the search warrant.
Reptile enclosures found during execution of search warrant.
Additional reptile enclosures found during execution of search warrant.
The court also convicted the Jansens of failing to comply with permit conditions, failing to provide a satisfactory account for the possession of certain animals and submitting false information in connection with a wild animal permit application.
CapeNature views offences involving the unlawful captivity, transport and trade with wildlife as serious environmental crimes. The Western Cape’s wildlife permitting system exists to ensure that the acquisition, possession, captivity, breeding, transport and trade in wildlife are conducted responsibly, lawfully and in a manner that supports biodiversity conservation while preventing illegal wildlife trade.
The unlawful trade and keeping of wildlife undermines biodiversity conservation, threatens the integrity of our regulatory systems and place law-abiding permit holders at a disadvantage. We welcome the court’s decision and trust that it sends a clear message that deliberate non-compliance with conservation legislation will have consequences.
The Western Cape is internationally recognised for its exceptional biodiversity and effective enforcement of conservation legislation is essential to protecting the Province’s unique environment.
Members of the public who wish to acquire, keep in captivity, transport, capture, release or otherwise dispose or trade in wildlife are reminded that these activities are regulated by law and generally require permits issued by CapeNature. Permit holders are also required to comply fully with all permit conditions and provide truthful information when submitting permit applications.
CapeNature is committed to dealing with wildlife crime through proactive compliance monitoring, investigations and collaboration with the South African Police Service Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority. Protecting biodiversity relies on the collective efforts of government, responsible wildlife keepers and the public.
Anyone wishing to report wildlife crime can contact their nearest police station, CapeNature on 087 087 9262, or the Crime Stop Tip-Off Line on 08600 10 111.
ABOUT CapeNature
CapeNature is a public institution mandated to promote and ensure biodiversity conservation within the Western Cape and is the custodian of the Cape Floristic Region. The Entity manages most of the mountain catchments and reserves that supply ecosystem services to the citizens of the Western Cape. This requires good scientific data, a sound understanding of fynbos ecology and commitment to the principles of integrated biodiversity management and planning. Most of this work is in remote areas out of the public eye but has a direct bearing on the quality of life of millions of people in the province.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
CapeNature
General Manager: Advocacy
Petro van Rhyn
pvrhyn@capenature.co.za
071 231 7576
Related News
The joy of being outdoors
Life has a way of becoming busy, but sometimes the greatest luxury is simply slowing down. Imagine waking up to fresh mountain air, taking a gentle stroll beneath towering trees, listening to birdsong, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee while overlooking breathtaking natural landscapes. These are the moments that help us reconnect with ourselves and appreciate the simple joys of life. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the restorative power of nature. That's why we're inviting senior citizens to enjoy peaceful escapes across the Western
Freshwater science takes centre stage at the 2026 SASAqS Conference
The Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) is a learned society concerned with the research, management and conservation of inland waters and their associated biota throughout southern Africa. Established in 1964 as the Limnological Society of South Africa, SASAqS provides an important forum for discussion and sharing of scientific ideas. The two cornerstones of the society's activities are the annual conference and the African Journal of Aquatic Science.
Marine Protected Areas hold the key to human wellbeing
On 1 August, we celebrate Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Day, a global occasion first marked in 2021 to recognise the role that MPAs play in conserving our oceans while supporting the wellbeing of people and communities. The day encourages us to appreciate the value of MPAs and the many ways they benefit both us and the extraordinary marine biodiversity they are designed to protect. This year's theme, "Ocean Protection Needs Human Connection," reminds us that conserving our oceans is a shared responsibility.
Bringing Conservation to Life Through Storytelling, Film and Digital Media
When was the last time a film, photograph or story about nature made you stop and feel something? Perhaps it was a breathtaking wildlife documentary. A short social media reel that transported you to a mountain peak. A travel video that inspired your next adventure. Or a story that highlighted the impact of a wildfire and reminded you why conservation matters. Every adventure has a story. Watch ours on our YouTube channel and subscribe for more.
CapeNature Wins Silver at International Tourism Film Festival Africa 2026
CapeNature has once again earned international recognition, receiving a Silver Award in the Sustainable and Responsible Tourism category at the International Tourism Film Festival Africa Awards 2026. The award was presented in Johannesburg on 5 June 2026 for Green Noise Season 3, Episode 3: Honouring Culture and Ancestors, celebrating CapeNature's commitment to authentic storytelling that promotes conservation, cultural heritage, and responsible tourism.