CoCT's Marine Unit ramps up operations to combat illegal fishing
City of Cape Town Law Enforcement’s Marine Unit has increased patrols, inspections and enforcement operations, leading to several arrests and the seizure of thousands of West Coast rock lobster tails in recent months.
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Cape Town’s Law Enforcement Marine Unit has stepped up operations along the city’s coastline and inland areas, resulting in increased patrols, inspections and several significant busts linked to the illegal trade in marine resources.
A seven-month comparison of the unit’s activities between July 2024 and January 2025, and the same period between July 2025 and January 2026, shows a marked increase in enforcement actions.
During the latest period, the unit received 44 complaints, up from 24 the previous year. Officers also checked 1 995 fishing vessels and permits, compared with 1 447 previously, while proactive patrols increased from 2 019 to 2 103.
The number of notices issued rose from 1 421 to 1 939, while impounded marine living resources increased from 1 091 to 1 668. Slipway inspections also increased from 493 to 533, and operations from 236 to 258.
The Marine Unit, which forms part of the City’s Law Enforcement Department, consists of 15 uniformed staff members supported by a small group of volunteers.
Over the seven-month period, officers made at least a dozen arrests and impounded a vessel. Several recent operations have also led to the recovery of nearly 5 000 West Coast rock lobster tails.
On January 15, officers arrested two men, aged 45 and 47, in Ravensmead for the illegal possession of nearly 400 West Coast rock lobster tails.
The following day, also in Ravensmead, a 50-year-old man from Uitsig was arrested in a shopping centre parking lot for the illegal possession and transportation of 300 West Coast rock lobster tails.
On January 21, officers arrested three men, aged 26, 33 and 43, in the parking area at Vangate Mall for the illegal possession of 1 000 West Coast rock lobster tails.
On February 24, officers confiscated 3 162 West Coast rock lobster tails at a house in Bishop Lavis and arrested a suspect. Earlier that same day, they assisted in an operation led by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, where four vessels were confiscated and 10 fishermen were arrested for catching crayfish in a Marine Protected Area off Cape Point.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith said the illegal exploitation of marine resources remained a persistent challenge.
“The plundering of marine resources is a longstanding challenge in Cape Town. Apart from overfishing in general, the poaching of resources like abalone and rock lobster to fund criminality is an issue that has demanded constant attention. The City’s Marine Unit works closely with other agencies responsible for policing this space. The uptick in operations and successes speaks to the unit’s commitment to the cause,” he said.
The unit’s work is not limited to the coastline.
Officers also collaborate with other City departments, particularly conservation rangers within the Environmental Management Department, to address by-law transgressions in City-owned nature reserves.
“It’s worth reminding the public that while we all have equal access to nature, we can’t simply do as we please when it comes to natural resources. Also, if you see something, or know something, then report it. The City’s dedicated tip-off line guarantees anonymity to those who share information,” Smith said.