Members of the Royal Cambodian Army (RCA) taking part in an operation to quash illegal fishing activities on the Tonle Sap Lake. - RCA
PHNOM PENH: Since the beginning of the year, the armed forces and other authorities have conducted extensive operations against illegal fishing activities on the Tonle Sap Lake.
To date, they have arrested 478 suspects – including 47 Vietnamese nationals – and destroyed over 2.8 million metres of fishing nets.
They also destroyed 7,225 fish traps, broke down 590,071 bamboo stakes and released 27 tonnes of fish and 725 tonnes of shellfish, the Royal Cambodia Army (RCA) announced on Monday (March 24), via social media.
Additionally, citizens voluntarily handed in 315 electric fishing devices and one airgun, while 56 boats, two vehicles, 14 boat engines, eight clam filters and numerous other illegal tools were confiscated.
Soldiers and other officials also educated 1,187 citizens and secured commitments from 441 additional individuals to cease illegal activities.
General Mao Sophann, RCA commander, praised the efforts. He instructed the army’s fisheries crime suppression command to continue strengthening their cooperation with the relevant institutions and local authorities.
Sophan urged the army and authorities to suppress all types, forms and methods of fisheries offences.
“The army must collaborate with relevant institutions to conserve and ensure the sustainability of aquatic resources and biodiversity for future generations, while also developing the Tonle Sap Lake.
This involves meeting with communities, raising awareness and addressing various challenges so that citizens can legally and responsibly earn a living from the lake,” he said. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
