(Svay Rieng): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered authorities to identify and investigate individuals accused of encouraging people to use illegal electric fishing gear on Tonle Sap Lake.

Speaking on Wednesday during the National Fish Day celebration in Svay Rieng Province, the premier said he had, over the past two years, deployed army personnel to support the Fisheries Administration and other law enforcement agencies in cracking down on illegal fishing on the lake.

He said the military's involvement was necessary because of Tonle Sap's vast area, the limited number of specialised enforcement officers, and the growing use of sophisticated illegal fishing equipment, particularly electric fishing devices.

"Previously, there were people who incited hundreds of residents to use electric fishing devices. In the past, some people encouraged land grabbing by telling others they could sell the land afterwards. Now they are telling people to go electric fishing, promising to buy the catch, while they themselves avoid legal responsibility. We must find and arrest those who are inciting others," he said.

The prime minister underlined that identifying and prosecuting those responsible for encouraging illegal electric fishing is essential to protecting Cambodia's fisheries resources. He noted that strict conservation efforts and intensified enforcement against illegal fishing over the past two years have already produced tangible results, including increased fish stocks and improved catches.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reiterated that he does not want the military to serve as the primary force against illegal fishing but said its deployment remains necessary due to the shortage of specialised enforcement personnel.

He also instructed the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to further strengthen fisheries management and conservation, with a focus on protecting breeding fish and endangered aquatic species.

In addition, Samdech Thiapdei Hun Manet called for closer cooperation among sub-national authorities, law enforcement agencies and the armed forces to curb illegal fishing, while enforcing strict legal action against the manufacture, distribution and use of destructive fishing gear, including electric fishing devices and fine-mesh nets.
=FRESH NEWS