Cambodia Cracks Down on Illegal Fishing Gear in Rivers and Lakes

Under the directive of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Cambodian military forces have intensified crackdowns on illegal fishing gear in Kampong Thom province. On the morning of September 22, 2026, Major General Som Son, Commander of the Provincial Operations Zone and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Provincial Commission for Protection, Prevention, and Suppression of Natural Resource Crimes, led intervention forces from the Kampong Thom Provincial Operations Zone Command. In cooperation with Mr. Kun Chanseyha, an official from the Stung Samrong Fisheries Administration, they conducted an operation to suppress illegal fishing gear during the closed season in the Tuol Thumm Dae, Khlaeng Khleang, and Chh’e Ang Rut areas, bordering Stung Samrong and Kampong Svay districts in Kampong Thom province. Major General Som Son stated that despite the persistent rain that morning, the joint forces continued their mission with determination, overcoming all obstacles. They destroyed four "Krolanhiek" nets, each over 500 meters long, along with four "Lok" traps. They also destroyed 18 "Spy Mong" nets, each over 900 meters long, along with 18 "Lok" traps and 36 "Lu" or "Lop" traps. Approximately 45 kilograms of various mixed fish fry were released back into natural lakes. Additionally, about 720 wooden posts used for the nets were destroyed. Major General Som Son appealed to the citizens, particularly fishermen, to refrain from using illegal fishing gear. He emphasized that the use of "Krolanhiek" nets and "Spy Mong" nets, which are illegal and used during the closed fishing season, severely damages the nation's fish resources. He urged all fishermen to strictly abide by the new Fisheries Law to ensure the replenishment of fish stocks for the needs of the Cambodian people nationwide and for future generations. Major General Som Son pledged to strictly implement the directives of the head of government and all levels of leadership of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces in effectively protecting, preventing, and suppressing illegal fishing in Kampong Thom province. He stated that if offenders continue to persist in their illegal fishing activities and violate the law, he, in his capacity as Permanent Vice Chairman of the Provincial Commission for Protection, Prevention, and Suppression of Natural Resource Crimes, will request specialized authorities to apply legal procedures without exception, with the aim of protecting the nation's fish resources for all Cambodian society. By Sum Vanna © 2018 National News Agency of Cambodia. All rights reserved.