Ten Bangladeshi fishermen have been sentenced to 10 days in jail and will be deported after being caught hauling 850 kilograms of crabs in a protected area in Bahrain. The Chief of the Ministries and Public Bodies Prosecution stated that the Sixth Minor Criminal Court issued the sentences and also ordered the confiscation of the proceeds from the illegal catch. The Coast Guard alerted the Public Prosecution about the group’s activities, leading to their arrest.
The fishermen were fishing commercially in a protected marine zone using ‘gargoor’ traps when they were apprehended. They had a significant haul of crabs weighing approximately 850 kilograms, which was seized by investigators. The suspects were detained and interrogated, where they were presented with evidence including the confiscated traps and the crab catch. The catch was sold at a public auction while the investigation was ongoing, and the proceeds were deposited as required.
After serving their 10-day jail sentences, the Bangladeshi fishermen will be deported from Bahrain as part of the crackdown on illegal fishing activities. The deportation orders will be enforced following the completion of their sentences. This case highlights the efforts of authorities in Bahrain to protect marine resources and enforce regulations in protected areas. The swift action taken by investigators to apprehend the suspects and seize the illegal catch demonstrates the seriousness with which these violations are treated.
The use of ‘gargoor’ traps for commercial fishing in protected marine zones is a violation of Bahrain’s laws and regulations, as it threatens the ecosystem and the sustainability of marine life. The authorities are cracking down on such illegal fishing activities to preserve marine resources and prevent further damage to the environment. The penalty imposed on the Bangladeshi fishermen serves as a warning to others engaging in similar activities that illegal fishing will not be tolerated in Bahrain.
The involvement of the Coast Guard in detecting and reporting illegal fishing activities showcases the collaborative efforts of different agencies to enforce maritime laws and protect marine areas. The successful prosecution of the ten fishermen and the confiscation of the proceeds from their illegal catch send a strong message that such violations will have consequences. By upholding the rule of law and holding offenders accountable, Bahrain is taking a proactive stance in safeguarding its marine ecosystem.
In conclusion, the recent case of the ten Bangladeshi fishermen being jailed and deported for illegal fishing in a protected area in Bahrain highlights the country’s commitment to preserving marine resources and enforcing regulations. The strict punishment imposed on the perpetrators serves as a deterrent to others engaging in similar illegal activities. By cracking down on such violations and holding offenders accountable, Bahrain is sending a clear message that illegal fishing will not be tolerated, and those who disregard the law will face consequences. The collaborative efforts of various agencies, including the Coast Guard and the Public Prosecution, demonstrate a unified approach to protecting marine areas and ensuring the sustainability of marine life in Bahrain.
