Cambodia Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing Gear to Protect Aquatic Resources

In Tboung Khmum province, Cambodia, authorities on September 10 conducted an operation to crack down on illegal fishing activities. The operation, led by the Tboung Khmum Provincial Department of Fisheries Administration and supported by forces from the Mekong River Fisheries Administration Inspectorate, the Second Military Region, and the Rokar P'am Fishery Community Committee, patrolled and suppressed illegal fishing in the Rokar P'am commune of Tboung Khmum district and the Tuol Snuol commune of Krach Chhmar district. The operation was facilitated by the Prosecutor General of the Tboung Khmum Provincial Court. As a result, the task force dismantled and destroyed illegal fishing gear on the spot, including 31 mosquito net traps, 1,550 meters of mosquito net barriers, and 465 stakes. During this operation, the team released a total of 245 kilograms of mixed fish and aquatic animals, equivalent to approximately 122,500 individuals, that were caught in the illegal fishing gear. This release aims to restore aquatic resources and protect the ecosystem in the area. In addition to the crackdown, the team also conducted outreach and provided guidance on the new Fisheries Law and the Sub-Decree on administrative fines for violations of the Fisheries Law to four fishermen in the Rokar P'am commune, Tboung Khmum district. This aims to enhance understanding and encourage participation in preventing illegal fishing. These continuous operations demonstrate the commitment of the specialized authorities and relevant forces in enforcing the law, combating illegal fishing gear, and ensuring the sustainability of aquatic resources for the benefit of citizens and future generations.