Islamabad: At least three trawlers were seized and dozens of fishermen were caught who were involved in using illegal fishing nets in Balochistan’s waters.
Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) and Balochistan’s fisheries department conducted joint operations against illegal fishing in Gwadar on January 2.
During the operation, “PMSA units carried out patrolling at open sea, south of Gwadar, Pasni, Pishukan, Ganz and Jiwani sectors to search for trawlers carrying out illegal fishing or using banned nets.” Multiple trawlers were boarded and searched and trawling vessels, operating in the southwest of Gwadar and Jiwani were intercepted.
The joint operation is a “testament to the fact that we are vigilant and remain committed to preventing illegal trawling in Pakistani territorial waters and high seas,” PMSA said in its statement.
Fishermen in Balochistan have often complained that trawling is destroying their livelihood and urged the government to take prevent illegal fishing. The provincial government of Balochistan has completely banned fishing and trawling off the Gwadar coast after the protest by the local fishing community last month.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has also directed the federal and provincial authorities to take strict action against those involved in illegal trawling. Deadly fishing gear and nets are
