An integrated multi-disciplinary intelligence driven operation was conducted in the Namakwa District under the Operation Phakisa banner last week.
The maritime security operation was carried out from Thursday 26 September to Sunday 29 September in the Namakwa District (Kleinzee, Groenrivier, Port Nolloth, Hondeklip Bay and Alexander Bay).
It was jointly conducted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), Provincial Border Policing, Border Policing, Search and Rescue, Springbok K9, Springbok Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU), Springbok Crime Intelligence, the Stock Theft and Endangered Species unit, Department of Home Affairs (Immigration) and South African National Parks (SANParks).
During coastal patrols, which were carried out on foot, with vehicles, and through seagoing vessels, a total of 115 vehicles and 329 persons were stopped and searched at various check points. Compliance inspections were further conducted at businesses, harbours, launching pads, camp sites, and aquaculture premises.
During coastal patrols in Kleinzee, two male suspects were arrested for operating a fish processing establishment without the required permit mandated under the Marine Act.
A Further three undocumented persons were arrested in Port Nolloth. A fine of R2500 was issued for the employment of undocumented persons during a construction site visit in Port Nolloth, and one suspect was arrested for possession of illegal substances.
Police confiscated several items, including drugs, cash, two Bosch engine hammer mills, and fourteen and a half bags of dry kelp with a total value of approximately R87000.
The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended the cooperation between the police and other government entities in ensuring that there is a collective effort in policing and preserving marine resources along coastal areas situated in the Namakwa District.
