“The focus areas addressed during the operation included illegal activities in relation to marine-related crimes and illicit sand mining.”
LOBSTERS, kob, steenbras and filleted tuna were confiscated at vehicle checkpoints
that were set up during a multi-disciplinary operation in Port Nolloth, Kleinzee, Hondeklipbaai and Groenrivier over the weekend.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Mashay Gamieldien said on Tuesday that fines amounting to R2,000 were issued to suspects for not being in possession of fish permits.
She added that drugs with an estimated street value of R3,000 were also confiscated during Operation Phakisa, which specifically focused on compliance and enforcement of security of South African waters and coastal areas.
“Suspected drug houses were identified and raided for drugs, where mandrax tablets and dagga, with a combined estimated street value of R3,000, were confiscated at addresses in Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth,” said Gamieldien.
She said that three suspected stolen cellphones valued at R6,000 were also found.
“Vehicle checkpoints were conducted on the Steinkopf and Kleinzee intersections on the road between Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth, during which 29 persons and 15 vehicles were stopped and searched.
“The operation also focused on the current Covid-19 mitigation efforts to secure the sea borderline and to ensure the safety and security of South African citizens.
“The focus areas addressed during the operation included illegal activities in relation to marine-related crimes and illicit sand mining.”
Gamieldien said that the role-players involved in the operations included the Port Nolloth SAPS, Upington Water Wing, Provincial Border police, Provincial Operational Response, Namakwa Crime Intelligence, Provincial Operational Coordination, Provincial Corporate Communication, Springbok POPS, Springbok K9, SARS customs and the Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Land Reform and Rural Development.
“Compliance inspections were carried out between April 2-4 at harbours, ports, yacht clubs, marinas, launching sites, docking bays and recreational fishing spots, focusing on illegal harvesting.
“During the operation, the members interacted and engaged with tourists and locals to create awareness regarding the need to carry permits for crayfish and other marine-related activities.”
