Dr Dion George Applauds Drone Fishing Arrest, Reinforces Marine Protection Efforts

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Dr Dion George, has commended the swift and coordinated actions of Fishery Control Officers and the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, following the arrest of a recreational fisherman for using a drone to cast bait off the Strandfontein Pavilion. The operation, which took place on Friday, 24 October 2025, was the result of a well-planned sting effort prompted by reports from vigilant members of the public.

Crackdown on Illegal Drone Fishing

According to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), officers acted promptly after receiving multiple complaints about drone-assisted angling in False Bay, a popular fishing destination. The suspect, who holds a valid permit for recreational angling, was found using a drone to deliver bait behind the surf zone—an activity expressly prohibited under South African law.

Minister George highlighted that while the permit allows the use of a rod, reel, and line for manual angling, the use of drones or any remote-controlled devices falls outside the legal boundaries set by the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998. The drone was confiscated and will serve as key evidence in forthcoming court proceedings.

Legal Framework and Past Rulings

The DFFE reaffirmed that the use of drones, bait-carrying remote-controlled boats, and other automated devices for fishing purposes has been illegal since 2005. Enforcement efforts have intensified since the Supreme Court of Appeal ruling on 16 July 2024, which upheld the national ban on such equipment. The court's decision reinforced the department's stance that drone fishing gives anglers an unfair advantage, allowing them to access distant waters and potentially overexploit marine life.

Minister George stressed that the judgment serves as a crucial precedent for ensuring fairness, sustainability, and ecological integrity in South Africa's marine ecosystems. He noted that the department will continue strengthening enforcement capacity and inter-agency cooperation to curb illegal fishing practices.

Protecting Marine Biodiversity

The DFFE underscored that the prohibition on drones is an essential measure to protect vulnerable marine species and preserve the ecological balance of coastal environments. Drone-assisted fishing, officials explained, not only threatens fish populations but also disrupts marine birds and mammals through noise and aerial disturbance.

"We remain committed to the sustainable management of South Africa's marine resources," the department said in a statement. "Technology can enhance research and conservation, but when misused, it can severely harm the delicate ocean ecosystem."

Community Vigilance and Enforcement Partnerships

Minister George praised the collaborative effort between law enforcement teams and the public, saying the arrest exemplifies how community vigilance contributes to marine protection. "This is the kind of zero-tolerance approach that strengthens our enforcement capabilities," he said. "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in this operation. Their dedication is vital to preserving South Africa's ocean heritage."

The DFFE confirmed that it will continue to conduct regular patrols, both onshore and offshore, to ensure compliance with marine resource regulations. Educational campaigns and awareness drives are also planned to inform recreational fishers about legal practices and the environmental consequences of illegal methods.

A Firm Stand for the Future

South Africa's coastline, stretching over 2,800 kilometres, is home to a wealth of marine biodiversity and supports thousands of livelihoods dependent on sustainable fishing. The Minister reiterated that protecting these resources is not merely a legal duty but a moral obligation to future generations.

"Those who seek to exploit our natural resources unlawfully will face the full might of the law," Dr George concluded. "Every responsible citizen has a role to play in ensuring our oceans remain a source of life, not exploitation."