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Cambodia Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Fishing to Protect Fishery Resources
Cambodia is intensifying its crackdown on illegal fishing gear to ensure the sustainability of its fishery resources. On September 19th, joint operations were conducted in several areas of Kampong Thom province, resulting in the confiscation of numerous illegal fishing implements and the release of live fish back into rivers. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to protecting the nation's aquatic ecosystems.
In Kampong Thom Province, located in northeastern Cambodia, the crackdown on illegal fishing activities continues with the aim of protecting fishery resources and ensuring their sustainable use. On September 19, 2026, in Stung Treng District, Mr. Kun Chanseyha, Director of the Stung Treng Department of Fisheries Administration, led a joint operation with contract officials and the Kampong Thom Military Operations Zone, 4th Military Region, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Luy Sophap. They conducted an inspection and crackdown on illegal fishing in the area from Trapeang Prasat to Ro Hal Pruol in Pralay Commune, bordering Lvea Ruessei Commune, Chikreng District, Siem Reap Province. The operation resulted in the dismantling and destruction of illegal fishing gear on-site, including 25 mosquito nets (1150 meters long), 25 loks (a type of fishing gear), 36 lu/lob (cylindrical fishing traps), and 50 wooden posts. Additionally, 150 kilograms of mixed fish were released back into the river. On the same day, Mr. Un Hean, Director of the Sandan Department of Fisheries Administration, participated with a working group from the Sandan District Military Operations Unit, the Boeung Krabei Khchak Fishery Community Committee, and the Tamun Mean Leak Fishery Community Committee. They inspected, prevented, and cracked down on illegal fishing activities east of Tuol Pong Ror Pagoda and in Boeung Rolum (bordering Stueng Sen City), located in Kakoh Commune, Sandan District, Kampong Thom Province. The operation resulted in the dismantling and destruction of illegal fishing gear, including 12 mosquito nets (550 meters long), 12 loks, 12 lob/lu, and 450 wooden posts. Fifty kilograms of fish were released back into the river. Furthermore, Mr. Keo Sokhoeun, an official from the Baray Department of Fisheries Administration (assigned to Tang Kor district), joined forces with the Koh Rues Military Operations Unit to prevent and crack down on illegal fishing in the areas of Prek Toal, Kdam Pong, and Sva Khmao, located in Slao Commune, Tang Kor District, Kampong Thom Province. The operation resulted in the dismantling and destruction of illegal fishing gear, including 8 mosquito nets (280 meters long), 8 loks, 8 lob/lu, and 95 wooden posts. Approximately 10 kilograms of mixed fish were released back into the river. These operations demonstrate the authorities' strong commitment to protecting Cambodia's rich fishery resources and ensuring sustainable fishing for future generations. The removal of illegal fishing gear and the release of live fish are expected to contribute to ecosystem recovery and the revitalization of local fisheries. Source: AKP Khmer
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AKP Khmer