Four men who were illegally removing and collecting mussels have been arrested by the eThekwini Municipality Law Enforcement Department at the Durban’s South Beach.

They were caught red-handed with loads of mussels in their possession. In total, they had collect 1 477 mussels with a street value of R 11 8160.

Law Enforcement Officer, Supt. Andrias Makhoba said the quartet was arrested and charged with contravening the Marine Living Resources Act 18/1998.

“ Regulation 55 (2) Act 18/1998 states that, no permit to collecting, transporting, keeping, controlling, possession at any one time more than the quantity or mass of fish set in annexure 13. Also the regulation 55(1) of Act 18/1998 state that no permit, engage in finishing, collecting, disturb, keeping, controlling, selling or possess any invertebrate fish. It is according to these two acts and regulations that this quartet was arrested and charged. People with permits are only allowed to collect not more than 30 mussels a day, when they exceed they are fined according to the regulations,” said Makhoba.

He added that the matter has now been handed over the Ezemvelo KZN Wild Life who will continue with the prosecution. The arrest came as a result of a joint operation between all Law Enforcement Officers who have embarked on a campaign to crack down on the illegal activities that are happening at the beachfront.

Ends

For more information, contact the Deputy Head of Parks, Leisure and Cemeteries, Mr Christo Swart on 031 311 4370 or email Christo.swart@durban.gov.za.

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. Call Vuyo Gwala on 031 311 4838, 073 250 5704 or email: gwalav@durban.gov.za

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