The City has denied reports that well-known Fish Hoek sand sculptor Lanele Xaba, better known as John English, was arrested for creating his artwork on the beach earlier this month.
Instead, the City said it has established that Xaba had been taken into custody by police on 26 June on an unrelated matter and on a warrant of arrest.
The clarification follows reports circulating on social media claiming Xaba had been arrested after being approached by Law Enforcement officers while sculpting on Fish Hoek Beach.
According to the City, Law Enforcement officers were called to the beach on 17 July, after being asked to assist with a situation involving Xaba.
Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith said Xaba had been creating sand sculptures while work was taking place on the beach, but had refused requests to move.
Smith wysed: “The beach manager also informed officers that there had been ad hoc complaints from members of the public that his sculpting causes sand to blow in the wind, creating a nuisance to others.”
He said Law Enforcement officers engaged with Xaba and a member of the public who was advocating on his behalf before asking both men to accompany them to the beach manager’s office to discuss the matter further.
Smith stressed that the incident was not related to permit requirements.
“The City would like to emphasise that this was not a permit issue. Officers did, however, explain to Mr Xaba and the member of the public how permits work,” he said.
According to Smith, Xaba does not require a permit if he is busking.
However, if he wants his artwork to remain on display for longer periods, a permit is required.
“The Law Enforcement officers did not issue any fines on the day, nor did they arrest Mr Xaba,” Smith said.
Smith said police would be best placed to comment on the circumstances surrounding that arrest.
The Daily Voice’s sister publication, the False Bay Echo has approached Fish Hoek police for comment regarding the arrest and will update the story once a response is received.