Public urged to report oil sightings on South Coast beaches
The public can report sightings via WhatsApp to 076 0787189.
Beachgoers on the South Coast have reported oil globules on several beaches, prompting warnings from authorities and growing concern about coastal pollution.
A couple visiting Banana Beach last Thursday, experienced an unpleasant surprise after a swim in the tidal pool.
“My husband went for a swim at the tidal pool and when he came out his feet were covered in tar,” the woman said.
“Our two small dogs also got tar on their paws, and we’re not sure how to remove it safely.”
In another incident, a nature lover discovered sticky oil near Southbroom’s Grannies’ Pool.
“At first it looked like animal droppings, but it’s sticky and clearly oil. You can’t get it off easily,” she said.
It appears that metal and blue drums are being dumped along the coastline, with recent reports thereof from Leisure Bay, Sodwana and Pennington.
In October last year, a 200-litre drum containing fuel mixed with water washed up on Port Edward Beach during a period of exceptionally high tides, prompting a swift joint response from Airtrack 101, GP Security and NSRI Port Edward.
In late December, NSRI Port Edward volunteers also collected a diesel/oil container from Wild Coast Sun beach.
There is growing concern that parts of the coastline may be used as a dumping ground for used marine oil. Accurate, well-documented public reports are essential to identify patterns and support further action.
The public can report sightings via WhatsApp to 076 0787189.
PUBLIC APPEAL
Report any drums or containers found or seen on beaches or in the coastal zone.
When reporting:
• Take clear photos.
• Capture any logos, writing, markings, or serial numbers.
• Note the location and date.
• Indicate whether the drum is empty, full, or leaking.
• Reports should be submitted to the relevant authorities for safe disposal.
• Sharing information and photos in centralised spaces also helps track patterns and supports further investigation.
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