SIX fishermen have been arrested in two separate incidents for allegedly violating the seasonal ban on shrimping, the Coastguard announced in a statement yesterday.
In the first instance, four Asian suspects were spotted fishing off the King Fahad Causeway. When ordered to stop for inspection, they reportedly tried to ram the patrol boat with their vessel and flee.
However, the patrol managed to intercept and arrest the men.
Banned bottom trawling nets found on the boat were confiscated and legal steps are being taken to refer the case to the Public Prosecution.
A Bahraini and an Indian fishermen were arrested in the second instance, according to the Public Prosecution.
On spotting a Coastguard patrol, the suspects tried to flee the scene but were successfully intercepted and detained.
An inspection of their vehicle revealed bottom trawl nets and 32.72 kg of juvenile shrimp, which are prohibited from being caught during the ban period.
During interrogation the accused confessed to using banned nets to catch juvenile shrimp.
The boat was ordered seized while the confiscated shrimp was auctioned.
Additionally, legal measures are underway to refer the suspects to court for trial.
The Coastguard has urged all sea-goers to stop for inspection when asked to do so.
It also emphasised the importance of adhering to fishing bans and restrictions on illegal equipment, as well as following regulations aimed at preventing overfishing and protecting marine life.
A six-month ban on shrimping is in force until July 31 in an effort to replenish fish stocks and help protect the kingdom’s marine resources.
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