In a strong show of teamwork and commitment to conservation, Durban’s coastal policing and rescue teams worked together to protect marine life at Umdloti Estuary by removing illegal gillnets.
Durban, South Africa (23 August 2026) – There are very few lengths our law enforcement and rescue teams won’t go to curb illegal activity – even if it means diving into deep waters.
The Durban Metropolitan Police Service (DMPS) Coastal & Tourism Policing Unit, working jointly with the Search and Rescue (SAR) Unit, recently carried out a successful anti-poaching operation at La Mercy Beach near the M4 Bridge and Umdloti Estuary, following reports of illegal gillnetting activity.
Gillnetting is a fishing method that uses vertical walls of netting suspended in the water to catch fish. The mesh-sized netting is designed so that fish can fit their heads through, but not their bodies; when a fish tries to back out, the twine catches behind its gill covers, trapping it.
Illegal gillnetting poses a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems. Gillnets can indiscriminately trap marine and estuarine species, causing significant damage to juvenile fish populations and other wildlife. Removing these nets contributes directly to the protection and sustainability of our coastal environment.
During the DMPS and SAR operation, members deployed both waterborne and land-based teams to locate and remove illegal fishing equipment concealed throughout the estuary and along the riverbanks.
Members using paddle skis entered the estuary to retrieve submerged nets, while officers positioned along the M4 Bridge and surrounding areas provided tactical direction, communication and ground support.
Together, the team successfully recovered three illegal gillnets measuring approximately 206 metres in total, as well as two improvised water navigation craft.
The recovered equipment was secured and transported to the Coastal Policing Main Base for documentation and further processing.
DMPS commended the Coastal & Tourism Policing and Search & Rescue members involved for their teamwork, commitment and determination in protecting eThekwini’s natural resources.
Related Stories
These Surprising Leopards of South Africa Also Deserve Some Love!
Dogs Found Safe But Hijacked Vehicle Still Missing – SPCA Still Needs Eyes and Ears! “Our coastline and estuaries belong to future generations too. Protecting them is everyone’s responsibility,” DMPS said.
by 
