21 illegal fishing traps detected and confiscated in Fujairah's protected areas

The Fujairah Environment Authority reported that its marine biodiversity team successfully confiscated 21 illegal fishing traps, known locally as "gargoor." Some traps were discovered near the edges of protected areas, while others were located inside these zones. Additionally, several endangered fish species were found in the traps.

These seizures were part of a field campaign aimed at monitoring and enforcing legal fishing practices. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard fish stocks, promote the sustainability of marine resources, and ensure compliance with regulations for sustainable fishing. The campaign covered an area within three nautical miles off the coast of Dibba Al Fujairah, close to marine protected areas, in line with a prior circular issued by the Authority to fishermen's associations about regulating fish trap use within Fujairah's permitted fishing zones.

The Authority confirmed that the specialised team promptly returned the seized fish to the sea, ensuring they were safely back in their natural marine habitats. The confiscated fish traps were handed over to the Fishermen's Association in Dibba Al Fujairah following established protocols.

The Authority operates under an annual strategy to monitor marine life, collaborating with fishermen's associations to bolster food security, protect fish stocks, and ensure sustainable and legal fishing practices around the clock. It also intensifies law-mandated campaigns in marine reserves due to their rich biodiversity, rare species, and remarkable coral reefs.

The Authority encourages the public to take an active role as guardians of the environment by reporting any violations or misconduct using the toll-free number 800368. Protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.