Elderly fisherman arrested as Coastal Marine Task Force targets black market fish trade
The north and south sides of the Umkomaas River were thoroughly patrolled, with compliance observed at most locations.
While holidaymakers enjoy the annual Sardine Run and fill beaches across the South Coast with excitement and activity, the darker side of the fishing season continues to emerge, where illegal fishing practices threaten local fish stocks.
On Monday, July 8, 2025, members of the Coastal Marine Task Force (CMTF) conducted a focused operation along the Umkomaas River, extending into surrounding estuaries and coastal access points.
The goal was to enforce marine resource regulations during this high-activity season by checking for fishing permits, verifying catch sizes, and identifying illegal or suspicious activity.
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The north and south sides of the Umkomaas River were thoroughly patrolled, with compliance observed at most locations.
However, when the team reached the South Side Pier, they encountered a man whose behaviour raised immediate red flags. Described as an elderly Indian man from Chatsworth, he was seen lingering near his vehicle, avoiding eye contact, and appearing nervous. When approached, he stated that he had come to fish but did not have a fishing permit.
He was advised to leave the beach and obtain a fishing permit for the future. He agreed and opened his boot to pack away his fishing tackle. CMTF officials then noticed numerous bags of ice and a large cooler box, which seemed suspicious.
This prompted a search of the vehicle, where several undersized grunter, mullet, and blacktail fish were found. The majority of the fish were below the legal size limit – a serious offence under South African marine law. The suspect was immediately arrested and taken into custody at the Umkomaas SAPS station.
He now faces charges under Sections 13 and 25 of the Marine Living Resources Act, specifically for fishing without a permit and possession of undersized fish- both serious violations that carry steep fines or possible imprisonment.
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According to CMTF, this is not an isolated incident. Syndicate buyers -individuals who purchase illegal fish from poachers or unlicensed fishermen – are a key part of the black-market chain that fuels environmental damage and undermines lawful fishing practices. By arresting buyers as well as illegal fishermen, the CMTF aims to disrupt this chain at multiple points. Numerous others are under surveillance, and further arrests will be carried out shortly.
The CMTF has become a formidable presence along the South Coast, known for its zero-tolerance stance against illegal fishing and the exploitation of marine life.
The task force is supported by SAPS, local security companies, conservation agencies, and private individuals. Anyone found contravening the Marine Living Resources Act will face serious consequences.
