AS gill net poachers continue to decimate local fish stocks with impunity, concerned CPF members have begun taking them head-on.
It is a task fraught with danger, and pitch-dark drama on Tuesday night typified the challenge facing anti-poaching volunteers.
Shortly after 7pm reports were received of poaching activities on the Mzingazi Canal near the Steel Bridge.
After notifying the SAPS Water Wing, CPF members from Arbovlei, Birdswood and Meerensee sprang into action.
A chase ensued as they pursued a suspect in a home-made boat, his amazing rowing speed keeping his followers at bay.
Driving on the road adjacent to the canal, the CPF members tracked him until close to Green Africa, where he ditched the boat.
‘A couple of our guys dived in and swam after him, right past a female hippo,’ said Simon Bosman.
‘Unfortunately the suspect managed to get away, but all the poaching equipment was recovered.’
This included the makeshift boat, more than 4km of poaching nets and in excess of 250 illegally captured fish – mostly spotted grunter and salmon.
All confiscated items were handed over to the Richards Bay SAPS.
The incident highlights the ongoing fish poaching problem, with scores of gill netters out every night in the bay area, harbour, canal and Lake Mzingazi.
Uncertainty over the present role and jurisdiction of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife with its honorary officers, and that of DAFF (the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) appears to have given the poachers increased confidence to plunder at will.
AVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
