The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment said it welcomes the conviction and sentencing of Unathi Wena Fishing CC for the comany’s fishing vessel, for illegal fishing in a Marine Protected Area.
The incident occurred from 10 to 13 May 2019 and was uncovered through intelligence gathered by the Department’s Monitoring and Surveillance Directorate.
Investigations revealed that the vessel, operating under permit number 1900511 for the Demersal Shark Fishery sector, violated Regulation 75 of the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) and Section 49A(1)(f) of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA).One of the key findings is that the Vessel undertook unauthorised fishing activities occurred within the protected area over a three-day period.
Another key finding is that the illegal catch was seized, and R150,000 was deposited into the Marine Living Resources Fund as security.
Sentencing took place on 27 November 2024 at the Bredasdorp Regional Court, which was presided over by Magistrate Cannon, imposed the following penalties on Unathi-Wena Fishing CC: Counts 1-3 (MLRA violations): R150,000 fine.Count 4 (NEMA violation): R2,000,000 fine, of which R1,000,000 was suspended.
“This judgment reflects the strength of our environmental legislation and the importance of monitoring and enforcement in deterring illegal activities, it also reinforces our commitment to collaboration with law enforcement agencies, communities, and stakeholders in the preservation of South Africa’s rich marine heritage. This successful prosecution highlights the Department’s unwavering dedication to protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring compliance with environmental laws,” added Dr Dion George, Minister of DFFE.