Beachgoers urged to report gill netters
UMHLANGA Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) has noted the growing trend of illegal gill nets that have been found on different spots along beaches and has appealed to beachgoers to urgently report sightings of the nets.
This comes after a gill net was removed, last week, by Dino Govender, a response task team leader from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (Daff). Govender responded the to UIP’S report of illegal gill net fishing in the Umhlanga Lagoon.
When Govender and his inspectors arrived on the scene, a massive gill net was found in the lagoon with an array of fish already caught in it.
The team released the trapped fish and removed the gill net which was later destroyed.
Umhlanga UIP Head Cara Reilly said while four suspects were questioned they were not caught red-handed at the scene with the net, so no arrests were made.
She said members of the Daff and the team from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife had been playing an active role in enforcing fishing rules and by-laws, and this was the second gill net removed from the area in the last two weeks.
“The quick response from Daff and the observant eye of UIP managing director, Brian Wright, who spotted the gill netters while crossing the Lagoon was hugely appreciated, and once again shows the value of collective care and effort.
“We appeal to all beach-goers and residents to report any suspicion they may have about gill netting or any other related crimes, to call the 24-hour hotline 0861 112 050,” said Reilly.