03/06/2026
Mi7 Guards Injured Seal Washed Up on Port Shepstone Beach, But Animal Sadly Could Not Be Saved
Date: 03 June 2026
PORT SHEPSTONE โ Mi7 Port Shepstone members spent the night protecting and caring for an injured seal that washed up on a local beach yesterday, after concerns were raised that the animal could be targeted by members of the public.
The incident began earlier yesterday after reports were received via the NSRI of another seal that had washed ashore along the South Coast. It marked the second such incident in the area within the last month.
Following a search of the beachfront, the seal was eventually located by responding teams. The animal appeared badly injured, with visible wounds believed to be consistent with shark bites, although the injuries had not yet been formally assessed by wildlife professionals at the time.
With memories still fresh of the previous incident, where community members had threatened to slaughter the animal, Mi7 immediately moved to secure the area and protect the seal from any possible harm.
A Mi7 guard was posted on site yesterday afternoon and remained with the animal throughout the entire night and into this morning.
The location of the seal was intentionally kept private to prevent crowds from gathering and to allow the animal to remain calm while awaiting veterinary assistance.
During the night, Mi7 members also purchased and brought sardines to the beach in an effort to feed and comfort the exhausted animal while it rested under guard.
This morning, representatives from the SPCA and Oceans Research arrived on scene alongside a veterinarian to conduct a full assessment.
Sadly, it was determined that the seal had sustained not only severe external injuries, but also extensive internal trauma. Based on the extent of the injuries and the suffering the animal had endured, the veterinarian made the decision that euthanasia was the most humane option.
The seal was euthanised on site and has since been removed for cremation.
While the outcome was heartbreaking for everyone involved, the companyโs priority throughout the incident was ensuring the animal was protected, treated with care, and not left vulnerable while waiting for professional assistance.
Mi7 management thanks the NSRI, SPCA, Oceans Research representatives, and all those involved in helping manage the incident safely and respectfully.
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