Can private security companies check for fishing permits?
Updated | By East Coast Breakfast
A video of a private security company checking for fishing permits is making the rounds on TikTok, sparking outrage among locals. Are they legally allowed to do this?

A TikTok video recently went viral showing a private security company at Umhlanga Beach demanding fishing permits from beachgoers.
The video, posted by @audio_simplicity, sparked debate about whether private security has the authority to enforce fishing regulations.
@audio_simplicity #SAMA28 #fourpage #fypviral #for #fouryou #southafrica #foru #videoviral #southafricatiktok🇿🇦 #videos #four #viralvid #foryoupage #fyp #fypツ #fypp #fypdongggggggg ♬ original sound - Audio_Simplicity2.0 #Maydiirs
To set the record straight, East Coast Breakfast spoke to Vinesh Soogreem and the answer is clear: no, private security companies do not have the authority to check for fishing permits.
The only time private security can enforce such regulations is if they are specifically contracted by an organisation to oversee that area. Even then, their role is limited to what their contract allows.
So, who can check your fishing permit? Only official law enforcement agencies, such as the SAPS and Metro Police, have the legal authority to request it.

HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO
1. Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
2. Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
3. Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet.
4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your OpenView decoder and browse to channel 606.
5. Listen to us on Amazon Alexa.
Follow us on social media:
· TikTok
MORE ON EAST COAST RADIO
Have a similar story or something unique to share? Email us at [email protected], we would love to hear from you!
Show's Stories
-
WATCH: Elderly man fixes a pothole in Gauteng
A video of an elderly man fixing a pothole in Gauteng has gone viral. Wh...
Stacey & J Sbu 3 hours ago -
Thailand hotel manager praised for calm during earthquake
Amid any storm, the one thing required is calm, and this man provided ju...
Danny Guselli 4 hours ago