By REGINALD KANYANE
29 September 2025- The Law enforcement stepped up the battle against marine related crimes through the implementation of Operation Phakisa across the coastal areas of the Namakwa District from 24 until 28 September 2025. Targeted operations were conducted in Port Nolloth, Kleinzee, Hondeklip Bay, Koingnaas, Groenrivier, Waterfall, Brazil and Alexander Bay.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said several South African Police Service (SAPS) units, in collaboration with officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Department of Home Affairs, Customs, Traffic and SANParks, executed a coordinated response to address criminal activities affecting the marine environment.
Ehlers said this multi-agency operation resulted in the arrest of one individual for the contravention of the Immigration Act and fines, totalling R15 400 were issued.
“Offences included violations of the Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996, and breaches of the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998. Disruptive actions carried out during the operation included stop-and-search actions, high-visibility foot and vehicle patrols, and vehicle check points. In total, 322 individuals and 151 vehicles were thoroughly searched.
“Seizures included limpets, fish fillets, mussels and tools believed to be used in the commission of crimes to the estimated value of R3 340. Compliance inspections were also conducted at harbours, launching sites, slipways, fish processing establishments, restaurants and campgrounds to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, reaffirmed that the continued success of such operations relies on sustained collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community. Otola assured the public that decisive action will remain focused on combating marine-related crimes and also protecting the fauna and flora of the Namakwa region specifically and thereby strengthening the safety and security within affected communities.
“Information can be shared anonymously via the MySAPS app or by contacting the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111,” said Ehlers.
The Guardian 