The search and seizure powers of environmental management inspectors

Abstract

Environmental management inspectors (EMIs) are important players when it comes to enforcement of and compliance with environmental law in South Africa. As a result, this study addresses their mandate, functions and the powers they possess in connection with search and seizure, with or without a warrant. The study falls to some extent under at least two sub-themes of the research unit, namely environmental governance and local government and environmental rights. The study is a literature study, comprising an exploration of legislation, study of case law, electronic sources, text books and academic articles relating to the mandate and functions of EMIs and also the powers of the environmental management inspectors to search premises and seize items