Video: Swimmers Take Risk Near Sharks at Umhlanga Rocks Beach Sparks Debate
- A video of two men swimming near sharks off the shoreline in Umhlanga Rocks Beach has sparked debate online, with some praising their bravery and others criticising their recklessness
- 2. The footage shows one swimmer cautiously approaching the sharks while the other stays nearby, prompting concern from spectators on the beach
- 3. The incident has reignited discussions about ocean safety and the risks of swimming in areas where sharks are present, particularly along KwaZulu-Natal's coastline, where shark sightings are common
South Africans were left stunned after a video surfaced showing two men swimming near sharks just off the shoreline in Umhlanga Rocks Beach.
Source: Facebook
The footage, shared by Prime Time News ZA on Facebook, has circulated widely online and shows the men in the water, where big sharks were reportedly spotted.
Rather than rushing back to shore, one of the swimmers was seen moving closer to investigate. Spectators on the beach could be heard expressing concern as the swimmer ventured closer to where the sharks appeared to be circling.
The daring moment has sparked debate among viewers. Some applauded the men for their bravery, while others criticised the decision as reckless.
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Sharks are a common sight along KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline, with sightings increasing during certain seasons when fish shoals attract them closer to shore.
The incident has once again highlighted the risks of ignoring safety protocols in the ocean. For many viewers, the clip that was published on 3 September 2025 served as both a thrilling and nerve-wracking reminder of the powerful marine life that shares South Africa’s waters.
SA reacts to sharks in Umhlanga as swimmer gets close
The online community took to the comments section to share their thoughts, saying:
Mark Cook said:
"They don't eat junk( human)food! See I changed it just for those who were triggered!"
Chezlin Albrecht wrote:
"Playing stupid games wins stupid prizes."
Anje Mnyuka added:
"This Shark let down the whole Sharknation."
Alet Alet commented:
"That guy wants to play with them, come here, sharky sharky."
Kyle Jenkins replied:
"Sharks don't attack for no random reason. I have been a diver for years and come across many sharks, and trust me, they don't attack unless u look like a seal or u bleeding, etc."
Linnay Nair stated:
"The guy screaming has me in stitches."
Ritesh Ramkissoon replied:
"When he gets bitten, they will blame the sharks. The swimmer and this commentator are both off their head."
Sbusiso Ndebele stated:
"So it's true that sharks don't chow on humans. In our culture, this is a calling, and no one can stop him. 😊"
Watch the video below:
Source: Facebook
Shark activity and safety measures on KZN beaches
Shark activity along KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) beaches is closely monitored to ensure public safety while balancing marine conservation efforts. The KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence (KZNSB) manages a shark control programme using shark nets and drumlines at 37 designated swimming beaches between Richards Bay and Port Edward. These measures aim to reduce the risk of shark attacks by limiting shark presence near popular beaches.
During the annual sardine run, which usually occurs between June and July, the KZNSB removes shark nets to allow the movement of sardine shoals and to prevent entanglement of marine life, including sharks. This period sees increased shark activity as predators follow the sardines. Consequently, swimming is often prohibited at southern KZN beaches during this time.
Despite these precautions, shark sightings and occasional attacks have occurred. However, the overall trend indicates a decline in shark attacks in the region, suggesting that the shark control measures have been effective in enhancing beach safety.
3 More shark encounters in SA waters
- Briefly News recently reported on fishermen catching multiple sharks at a Durban beach right after shark nets were removed due to severe weather conditions, causing major concerns among beachgoers.
- Beachgoers at Fish Hoek near Cape Town captured footage of a dolphin that left social media users confused about whether the marine mammal was displaying joyful behaviour or signs of distress.
- A terrifying moment was captured on TikTok showing a man who had a dangerous slip while standing on rocks near swimming sharks.
Updated by Hilary Sekgota, Human Interest HOD at Briefly News.
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Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
