South African Navy chief vice-admiral Monde Lobese has issued a blistering warning about the state of the countrys maritime security, accusing parts of government of undermining the defence force and putting South Africas sovereignty at risk.
Speaking at the SA Navy Gala Concert 2025, Lobese said the navys prolonged absence at sea due to ageing, unserviceable vessels and shrinking budgets had left South Africa vulnerable to drug cartels, human traffickers, illegal miners and maritime criminals.
The continuous absence of the navy at sea is dangerous for our country, and any maritime country for that matter, he said.