Cambodia Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing in Mekong River Basin, Seizing 11 Nets and 210 Meters of Mesh

On July 28, 2026, specialized forces from the Department of Fisheries Administration of Kampong Cham province, in collaboration with local authorities and law enforcement from the administrative police post of Kang Meas district, conducted an operation to inspect and suppress illegal fishing activities in the Mekong River area of Kang Meas district, Kampong Cham province. This operation was carried out under the coordination of the Prosecutor General of the Kampong Cham Provincial Court. During the operation, specialized authorities dismantled and destroyed illegal fishing equipment on-site. This included 11 "lu sbai mong" fishing devices (type not specified, likely a form of net), 210 meters of "lu sbai mong" netting, and 120 stakes. Additionally, 6 kilograms of various species of juvenile fish were released back into the river. This action is seen as part of ongoing efforts by the Cambodian government to combat illegal fishing practices that threaten aquatic ecosystems and sustainable resource management. The Mekong River is a vital resource for both the economy and the livelihoods of many Cambodians, making its conservation a priority.