Amid an ongoing investigation into the mass sardine mortality in the Western Cape, sardines have now also begun washing ashore in the Eastern Cape.  

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) confirmed that it received reports of this last week from Gqeberha, as well as isolated sightings in Bakoven and off Tsitsikamma. There have also been similar reports in Namibia. 

“In its update issued last weekend, the DFFE noted that no new mass-mortality incidents had been reported since 16 August 2026. Since then, isolated sightings have been reported at Bakoven and off Tsitsikamma, followed on 27 August 2026 by widespread reports of sardines washing ashore around Gqeberha and floating offshore and within the harbour… Sardine strandings have also been reported along the Namibian coast,” read the department’s statement.  

The department said it has expanded its investigation and has collected samples, which will be tested to confirm whether it can also be linked to Pilchard herpesvirus (PHV).   

“PHV remains the leading explanation for the Western Cape mortality event. A link with the Gqeberha event is considered likely, but requires confirmation, and other causes and environmental contributions will also be investigated.”  

At the same time, the department added that it received reports at the Koeberg nuclear power plant, with seals feeding on live and dead sardines, but noted that it has not had access to the site to obtain a sample because Eskom is managing this incident.

READ MORE: Koeberg Unit 1 taken offline due to turbine trip – Smile 90.4FM

Regarding collection and consumption, the department again reiterated its call for locals not to collect or eat the fish that have washed up, because of “decomposition-related risks”, despite PHV not being known to infect people.  

The public can still consume canned sardines. 

“The joint DFFE and National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) statement released on 27 August 2026 confirms that there is no basis to discontinue consumption of commercially produced canned sardines processed under NRCS oversight. These products must be distinguished from dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating at sea.” 

ALSO READ: Sardine die off has no connection to Milnerton Lagoon pollution – Smile 90.4FM