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More than 700 illegal fishing tools were confiscated last month as the Coastguard intensified its crackdown on violations threatening Bahrain’s marine ecosystem.
The Interior Ministry yesterday revealed that officers seized 684 banned traps and 28 fishing nets during their latest operations.
In December, enforcement efforts were even more extensive, with the Coastguard confiscating 1,191 illegal fishing tools, including 1,020 fish traps (gargoor) and 171 nets, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to protecting the kingdom’s marine resources.
“These efforts are part of a campaign to ensure that fishermen comply with applicable laws and regulations. They also aim to safeguard Bahrain’s marine environment and natural resources,” said a ministry statement.
Illegal fishing equipment have been seized and necessary legal measures have been taken against violators.
The Coastguard Command called on all fishermen to adhere to the laws and regulations governing fishing operations.
The GDN reported last week that the annual six‑month ban on fishing and trading shrimp took effect on February 1 and will continue until July 31. The move aims to preserve fish stocks in line with Bahrain’s efforts to achieve sustainable development in the sector.
Despite the ban, numerous cases of rogue fishermen caught with illegal shrimp hauls have been recorded in recent years.
Under the 2002 Fishing Organisation, Practice and Protection Law, offenders may face up to one month in jail, fines ranging from BD300 to BD1,000, or both. Their equipment and catch are also subject to confiscation.
In 2018, Bahrain introduced a trawling ban after it was revealed that the country’s fish stocks had declined by 90 per cent since 2004. Individuals who engage in such prohibited fishing techniques face criminal prosecution.