A Cape Town couple have been fined R40,000 each following their conviction on multiple charges linked to the unlawful keeping, possession and transport of 95 reptiles.
The Wynberg Magistrate’s Court sentenced Zirkie Bernardus Jansen and Valerie Gayle Simpson-Jansen of Kirstenhof on 30 July 2026.
Each must pay the fine or serve 18 months in prison.
Couple convicted on seven counts
The couple were convicted on seven counts under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974.
The offences were committed during March 2022 and involved 95 reptile specimens, including crested geckos, New Caledonian geckos, gargoyle geckos and ball pythons.
The reptiles were kept and transported without the required permits and authorisations.
The court also convicted the couple of failing to comply with permit conditions and failing to provide a satisfactory account for possessing certain animals.
They were also convicted of submitting false information in connection with a wild animal permit application.
CapeNature welcomes court decision
CapeNature described the unlawful captivity, transport and trade of wildlife as serious environmental crimes.
Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, said: “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.”
Wildlife activities require permits
CapeNature said the Western Cape’s wildlife permitting system regulates the acquisition, possession, captivity, breeding, transport and trade of wildlife.
The system aims to ensure these activities take place responsibly and lawfully while supporting biodiversity conservation and preventing illegal wildlife trade.
Members of the public who want to acquire, keep in captivity, transport, capture, release, dispose of or trade in wildlife are reminded that these activities are regulated by law and generally require CapeNature permits.
Permit holders must also meet all permit conditions and provide truthful information when submitting applications.
How to report wildlife crime
CapeNature works with the South African Police Service Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority to address wildlife crime through compliance monitoring and investigations.
Members of the public can report suspected wildlife crime through:
- Their nearest police station
- CapeNature on 087 087 9262
- The Crime Stop Tip-Off Line on 08600 10 111
Leave a comment