The Coastal Marine Task Force (CMTF) responded to reports of active gillnetting at a local dam in Sezela last week.
On arrival, the suspects fled into a nearby bush and evaded arrest.
During the operation, CMTF members successfully located and removed over 500 metres of illegal gillnets from the water.
Multiple fish, including large tilapia, were found entangled in the nets and were thereafter safely released back into the dam. All recovered gillnets were confiscated.
This operation highlights the ongoing threat of illegal fishing activities.
CMTF reminds the public that gillnetting is illegal and prohibited in South Africa under the Marine Living Resources Act (Act 18 of 1998).
The organisation extends its appreciation to all members involved in this recent operation, as well as Scottburgh Saps and Gladiator Security for their swift response and support.
CMTF aims to continue providing support to environmental stakeholders in the protection and conservation of the biodiversity resources of coastal operational areas.
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