The NSRI says a swordfish has beached at Gordon’s Bay last night. Spokesperson Craig Lambinon says concerned residents tried to get it back into the ocean, but failed.

They had received a call at 18h38 last night after which NSRI Gordons Bay duty crew were requested by CoCT MASN (City of Cape Town Marine Animal Stranding Network) to assist with the beaching.

During the high tide peak

The NSRI says it appears that concerned residents, Good Samaritans, had attempted to get the Sword Fish back out to sea during the high tide peak after the animal was witnessed beaching in shallow surf but efforts had not been successful.

“Despite risking injury concerned public members were attempting to re-float the Sword Fish but the animal continued to beach itself,” said Lambinon.

The marine animal beached during the turn of the high tide. Many units responded to the scene, including SAPS and CoCT Law Enforcement officers.

Department of Environment scientific study

The Sword Fish, sadly unable to be returned to the ocean, has been removed for a Department of Environment scientific study.

Swift response commended

He said the swift response of NSRI Gordons Bay, Police, Law Enforcement, QUEMIC and CoCT MASN is commended.

The SPCA was also alerted and a CoCT MASN team, from QUEMIC Nature Conservation, responded as well.

“It is unknown what caused the Sword Fish to beach although we suspect ill health. The public members on the scene are commended for trying their best to save the animal,” elaborated Lambinon.

NSRI Gordons Bay crew, Gordons Bay SAPS patrol officers and Law Enforcement assisted in protecting the beached animal.

READ MORE: NSRI assists in various rescues

Lambinon concluded, “While these events are sad and understandably citizens want to do their best for the animal we appeal to the public to avoid risking injury in these natural circumstances.”