Six men, including four Indian fishermen and two Bahraini accomplices, have been charged after they were caught using banned bottom trawl nets to catch 40 kilograms of fresh shrimp at sea. The Coast Guard spotted their boat and the men attempted to flee, but were apprehended by authorities. The vessel lacked proper safety equipment and the two Bahraini nationals who aided in the illegal operation have also been arrested and are in custody. The Chief of the Ministries and Public Bodies Prosecution expressed concern over the damage that bottom trawl nets can cause to marine life, as they are harmful to the environment and can lead to a decline in marine biodiversity.
The illegal fishing activities were uncovered when the Coast Guard spotted a boat carrying Indian suspects using bottom trawl nets, which are prohibited by law in Bahrain. The men tried to escape upon seeing the patrol, but officers were able to catch them and discover 40 kilograms of fresh shrimp on board. Further investigations revealed the involvement of two Bahraini nationals who assisted in the illegal operation. The boat has been seized as evidence, and all six men have been referred to the Minor Criminal Court for their actions.
The Chief of the Ministries and Public Bodies Prosecution highlighted the negative impact of bottom trawl nets on marine ecosystems, stating that they can lead to a decline in marine biodiversity and destroy vital habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds. These nets are designed to catch large amounts of fish, often trapping unintended species and endangering the long-term sustainability of fish stocks. In addition to the environmental damage, the defendants are facing charges for failing to display proper navigational lights, sailing without a valid license, and obstructing law enforcement during the inspection.
Illegal fishing activities, such as the use of banned bottom trawl nets, pose a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems in Bahrain. The Chief of the Ministries and Public Bodies Prosecution emphasized the harmful effects of these fishing methods, which can result in a decline in marine biodiversity and the destruction of vital marine habitats. The defendants in this case have been charged with multiple offenses related to their illegal fishing activities, including failing to comply with safety regulations and obstructing law enforcement.
The Coast Guard’s prompt action in apprehending the six men engaged in illegal fishing activities demonstrates Bahrain’s commitment to enforcing maritime laws and protecting its marine environment. Bottom trawl nets are known to cause significant damage to marine ecosystems, as they can trap unintended species, destroy important habitats, and threaten the long-term sustainability of fish stocks. The authorities have seized the boat and arrested all individuals involved, sending a clear message that such illegal activities will not be tolerated in Bahrain.
The illegal fishing case involving six men in Bahrain serves as a reminder of the importance of enforcing laws and regulations to protect marine life and ecosystems. The use of banned bottom trawl nets can have devastating consequences on marine biodiversity, habitat destruction, and fish stocks. The authorities’ swift action in apprehending the suspects and seizing the boat as evidence demonstrates their commitment to combating illegal fishing activities and safeguarding Bahrain’s marine environment. It is essential for individuals to comply with regulations and engage in sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term health and viability of marine ecosystems.
