Dumped shark causes stink in Plett

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Marine animals have shown up in unexpected places in Plettenberg Bay over the years, but a shark in the middle of town is a first. And it caused quite the stink.

One of the Keep Plett Clean Campaign workers was clearing rubbish bins in the centre of town when he made a grisly discovery - the rotting carcass of what seems to be a smoothhound shark. It was found in one of the organisation's blue bins along Park Lane.

Keep Plett Clean founder Alison Bryant said that the shark measured about 1,3m. "Who in their right mind would kill a shark and then deposit it in a Keep Plett Clean bin to rot in the middle of town - the Park Lane park to be exact?" she asked.

She said the act was disrespectful on many levels, including against animals and the community at large.

The worker, who was shocked following the discovery, sought the help of campaign volunteer David Scott and together they bagged the creature and took it to the local transfer station where it could be properly disposed of.

A social media post about the incident sparked an outcry from the community calling for efforts to track down the person responsible. Some residents also complained that the stench could be noticed in the surrounding areas.

Bryant said that this was the first incident of such a nature since the campaign was launched nine years ago.

The aim of the organisation is to create a clean and fresh-looking town that locals can be proud of and visitors, local and foreign, would find a pleasant and attractive holiday destination.

Volunteers come together and ensure that the town is in tip-top condition by picking up rubbish, erecting bins in strategic places and beautifying the area.

The organisation also employs two workers who assist daily.

A shark found in a bin in Plettenberg Bay town centre.