Shark alert at Cape Town beach

2008-11-26 09:29

Cape Town - One of Cape Town's most popular beaches has been closed with immediate effect, after a dead whale was found floating in waist-deep water.

Authorities believe sharks have been feeding on the carcass, and a large number of sharks will be attracted to Muizenberg Beach.

The 10-metre juvenile Humpback whale carcass was found at Surfer's Corner in Muizenberg and appeared to have shark bite marks, said Craig Lambinon of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).

'There is a large concentration of sharks in that area, it's quite evident," he told News24.

Local shark spotters are on high alert, and law enforcement officers are on scene, advising people not to surf or swim at the beach.

"As a further precaution bathers and sea users at other beaches on the False Bay Coast are advised to exercise caution," he said.

Marine and Coastal Management are on the scene looking at the best options for removing the carcass, such as towing it out to sea.

Lambinon said it was unclear how long the beach would remain closed for.

- News24