Operation ‘Phakisa’ executed in coastal areas

ALEXANDER BAY – The focus this quarter included illegal activities in relation to marine related crimes by monitoring and ensuring strict compliance of the prescribed ranching, fishing and harvesting regulations as well as addressing the proliferation of drugs and preventing the flow of undocumented immigrants.

Several arrests were made. Teams from different departments and entities, including SARS Customs Unit, SAN Parks, the Department of Mineral and Resources and the Department of Agriculture Environmental Affairs Rural Development and Land Reform executed the disruptive actions.

227 fishing permits were inspected at harbours, camping sites and launching pads visited by the multi-disciplinary law enforcement officials for which fines to the value of R3 500,00 were issued for the contravention of the Marine Living Resources Act.

The multi-disciplinary team also searched and seized, liquor, mandrax and a VW Polo vehicle that was used in the commission of crime, all valued at R315 470, 85. Numerous fines were issued for contravention of the Liquor Act.

Six (6) suspects were arrested for contravention of the Marine Living Resources Act, Immigration Act, dealing and possession of drugs as well as riotous behaviour and they were warned to appear in Court with an option of a fine.