An unusual satellite-tracked fish aggregating device (FAD) buoy and a canister containing liquid washed up on Southbroom Beach, prompting concerns about marine pollution and the potential impact on wildlife.

According to Taryn Burns of Oceanfriendly South Africa, the items were discovered on October 10 and were safely removed through a joint effort involving the Southbroom Community Policing Forum, NSRI Station 32 Port Edward, Wolf Security and Oceanfriendly.

The items will be handed over to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) for further investigation.

Burns said commercial FADs are used to attract fish but can pose risks to marine life, including turtles, sharks, dolphins and juvenile tuna, through bycatch and entanglement.

Lost fishing equipment can also continue trapping and killing marine animals long after it has been discarded, a process known as ghost fishing.

FADs washing into South African waters may also raise regulatory concerns under the Marine Living Resources Act.

Barcodes or serial numbers on the devices could help DFFE establish their origin and investigate their use.

Burns urged beachgoers not to touch or move unusual objects found along the coastline.

“From a safe distance, note the location and report them to your local CPF and NSRI,” she advised.

She stressed the need for accountability, monitoring and protection of marine life, saying the ocean should not be treated as a dumping ground.

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