With peak tourist season approaching, Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has urged hikers to take extra safety precautions following the assault of a woman on a popular Pipe Track trail this week.

The incident happened on Wednesday afternoon when the woman was attacked near Camps Bay at about 1.50 pm.

According to police, she was grabbed from behind, choked, assaulted, and robbed of her belongings.

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that an adult male suspect was arrested and is facing charges of attempted murder and robbery.

“He will appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court once formally charged,” Twigg said.

The Camps Bay Crime Investigation Division (CID), which assisted SANParks rangers during the operation, explained how the response unfolded.

“At about 2.30 pm, our control room was made aware of information regarding a mugging that had taken place on Table Mountain above Camps Bay approximately 15 to 20 minutes earlier. As the report was not received directly from a victim or witness, our Public Safety and Management Team immediately reached out to our mountain safety partners to verify the details and ensure an accurate and effective response,” the division said.

“By 2.50 pm, we had made direct contact with the individual involved. We then received a more detailed account confirming that a female hiker had been approached by a male suspect who violently attacked her. During the assault, another male hiker witnessed the incident and intervened, helping to fight off the suspect, who fled the scene with some of the victim’s belongings.

The CID said their managers immediately deployed all available resources to known escape routes, while two senior Public Safety staff attended to the victim and witnesses.

“SANParks was also informed of the incident, and their Sea, Air, and Mountain (SEAM) Team responded promptly to conduct a thorough search of the area where the suspect was last seen. At 3.41 pm, CID Management received confirmation that the SEAM Team had apprehended a suspect matching the description.

“The suspect, on instruction from SAPS, was brought to Camps Bay SAPS station, where he was arrested. Our Crime Support team also met with the victim and is assisting with all administrative needs to ensure a smooth process in opening a CAS. Medical and trauma support were also offered. We are wishing the victim of this attack a swift recovery and are grateful to be able to assist SANParks in apprehending the suspect. We will continue to monitor the progress of the case to ensure prosecution.”

SANParks Head of Communications, JP Louw, praised the swift action of the rangers and confirmed that the suspect was arrested with the stolen phone in his possession.

“Rangers, including the SEAM special operations rangers, were dispatched to the location and conducted a search based on the last known position. They found a suspect matching the description, along with the stolen cell phone. The team apprehended the suspect and assisted the victim in filing a case at the South African Police Service station in Camps Bay,” Louw said.

He added: “We urge park visitors to always exercise caution while enjoying outdoor activities and to hike in groups. We extend our heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery to the victim.”

With thousands of locals and international tourists expected to flock to Table Mountain in the coming months, SANParks reiterated its safety advice for hikers:

– Avoid hiking alone – groups of four or more are recommended.

– Know your route before starting and stick to designated trails.

– Inform someone of your expected return time.

– Carry sufficient water, a jacket, a hat, and sunblock.

– Check weather conditions beforehand, as Cape Town’s climate can change quickly.

– Leave valuables at home.

Store emergency numbers: TMNP Emergency 086 110 6417; Wilderness Search and Rescue 021 937 0300 or dial 112.

“Joining hiking clubs not only improves safety but also fosters a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts,” Louw said.

SANParks reminded visitors that entry to the park remains at their own risk, but stressed that rangers will continue to patrol and act swiftly to protect hikers. ANA