Cambodia Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing to Protect Fishery Resources

In Kampong Cham Province, Cambodia, officials from the provincial Fisheries Administration have cracked down on two cases of illegal fishing. The operation, conducted on September 16, 2026, involved the cooperation of authorities from Prey Chhor and Kong Meas districts, along with the Prek Krabao Administrative Police Post, under the supervision of the Kampong Provincial Court Prosecutor's Office. The crackdown resulted in the immediate dismantling and destruction of illegal fishing gear. According to Mr. Ly Sreang, Director of the Kampong Cham Fisheries Administration, the two illegal fishing cases involved the removal and destruction of the following equipment: Case 1, located at Stueng Chheu in Mien Commune, Prey Chhor District, saw the dismantling of 8 fishing nets, 240 meters of net barriers, and 120 supporting poles. Additionally, 5 kilograms of mixed fish fry were released. Case 2, situated near O'Kandal Bridge in Prek Krabao Commune, Kong Meas District, involved the destruction of 12 fishing nets, 320 meters of net barriers, and 160 supporting poles. Furthermore, 6 kilograms of mixed fish fry were released. Mr. Ly Sreang emphasized that the Kampong Cham Fisheries Administration pays high attention to cracking down on all fishing violations within its jurisdiction, particularly in preventing illegal activities during the closed fishing season. This aims to increase fish stocks in natural waters and ensure food security and livelihoods for the people. He also appealed to citizens and fishermen to participate in protecting natural resources and aquatic life, and to engage in legal fishing practices to preserve fish species for future generations. Source: AKP Khmer