SANParks said the recruitment process would begin immediately and the first recruits are expected to report for duty within the next three months.

"We cannot allow the internationally iconic status of Table Mountain National Park to be negatively impacted by ongoing crime in this area. The economic implications for the Cape Town City and the country are significant ... we have to act decisively in dealing with this issue.

"At the end of the day, the Table Mountain National Park is there for all, and we want both our domestic and international visitors to be able to enjoy the park to its fullest without any fear," Mabunda said.

SANParks said it would continue working with the SAPS, Metro Police, provincial officials and other partners as part of a multi-stakeholder approach to combating crime on Table Mountain.