(Photo: Shara/Facebook)
Members of the public have been warned not to remove any remains from shipwrecks that have washed up due to the recent stormy weather, as this is illegal. Three people have already been arrested in this connection.
According to the Mossel Bay Municipality, remnants of historic shipwrecks washed up at Diaz Beach due to recent stormy weather. Remains of the Rosebud (1888) in King Cenric (1903) was exposed, among other things.
The municipality’s warning came after a video was circulated on social media showing individuals apparently collecting and carrying away some of the remains on Diaz beach. This beach area has meanwhile also been closed until further notice for repairs after damage caused by the stormy weather.
(Foto: Drone Fanatics/Shara/Facebook)
Die Mossel Bay Advertiser reports that three people were arrested on Monday, after remains of a shipwreck were found in their possession. They will be charged with possession of suspected stolen property.
According to the Mossel Bay municipality, material from shipwrecks is protected by legislation as heritage objects and no one may remove any part of a wreck without the required permits from the relevant heritage authorities.
(Photo: Shara/Facebook)
The Bitou municipality also emphasized in a notice that any material from shipwrecks is protected by legislation. This after a shipwreck site was uncovered in the Plettenberg Bay area.
“The shipwreck and related remains form part of South Africa’s protected cultural and historical heritage and may not be removed without the necessary legal authorization from the relevant heritage authorities.”
The South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) said all archaeological artefacts and sites in South Africa are protected under the National Heritage Resources Act.
(Photo: Shara/Facebook)
“This protection extends to any shipwreck, or part thereof, that is more than 60 years old, as well as any associated archaeological material. Accordingly, it is illegal to damage, destroy, disturb or remove any part of a protected shipwreck or associated material without a valid permit issued by Sahra.”
Sahra requested the public to contact him or local museums if they come across suspected remains of shipwrecks or if any illegal activities are observed in this regard.