Update

MOSSEL BAY NEWS -  Three suspects were arrested in a police operation in Mossel Bay on Monday 18 May for the possession of suspected stolen archaeological material.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Chris Spies said the police acted on some information they had received and stopped a vehicle in Beach Boulevard at about 11:00. 

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of items believed to be parts of a shipwreck.

The suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear in court once formally charged.

Meanwhile, the South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) confirmed to Mossel Bay Advertiser that it had been notified of possible illegal salvage activity at a shipwreck site on Diaz Beach. 

King Cenric. Photo: Sahra

The wreck is believed to be the King Cenric’s, a Norwegian vessel that ran aground in November 1903. The agency said: “The wreck lies in shallow waters close to the shore and is frequently exposed by storms and shifting sand, making it vulnerable to looting.”

Sahra emphasised that all archaeological sites and artefacts in South Africa are protected under the National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999). 

This protection includes all shipwrecks older than 60 years, as well as any associated material.

The agency further clarified that salvage law does not apply to historic shipwrecks in South African waters. Instead, such wrecks are classified as archaeological heritage and remain the property of the state. 

“It is therefore illegal to damage, disturb, remove or possess any material from a protected shipwreck without a valid permit issued by Sahra.” 

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