Kampong Thom Military Commander Issues 3 Directives to Combat Illegal Fishing

In Kampong Thom Province, Cambodia, Major General Som Son, Commander of the Regional Military Operations Area and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Committee for the Protection, Prevention, and Suppression of Natural Resource Crimes, has issued three directives to combat illegal fishing. These directives are aimed at eradicating illegal fishing activities, particularly the use of illicit fishing gear and harvesting methods. The three directives include: 1. Strictly prohibiting "shock fishing" (fishing using electric shockers or similar devices) in all forms. 2. Cracking down on the use of illegal gillnets in all locations. 3. Ensuring the protection of fish breeding reserves in all areas. Furthermore, Major General Som Son instructed the joint forces to prevent the harvesting of shellfish using motorized boats. He commended the joint forces, with the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces at the core, for their diligent efforts, regardless of the difficulties faced during both the dry and rainy seasons. He highlighted their commitment and sense of responsibility in overcoming geographical and natural challenges. The patrols conducted day and night in the fish conservation zones around Tonle Sap Lake have reportedly contributed to the recovery of fish stocks nationwide. Lieutenant Colonel Hem Thom, a military officer from the Kampong Thom Regional Military Operations Area Command, and Mr. Yan Lim, a contract fisheries official representing the Kampong Svay Lower Fisheries Administration District, reported that over the past nearly two years, the joint forces have achieved commendable results in protecting, preventing, and suppressing illegal fishing activities. They stated that illegal fishing in the Tonle Sap Lake area within Kampong Thom Province has decreased by approximately 70% to 80%. The joint forces have been consistently engaged in daily activities, including education and guidance, administrative measures, and the confiscation of illegal fishing gear on the spot. The report also noted that a majority of citizens have gained a better understanding and are now complying with the new fisheries law. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local