Suspension of the license of a fishing vessel that violated prohibited areas in Mostaganem – New Algeria

Today, Thursday, the General Directorate of Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture issued instructions to its local authorities to open investigations and field investigations, following the circulation of video clips on social media platforms, showing a number of Chalutiers fishing vessels engaging in fishing activity near the beaches of Mostaganem, according to a statement by the Directorate.

The directorate’s statement stated that investigations had resulted in suspicion of the involvement of the ship called “A.A-1,” registered in the state of Chlef, in fishing within a prohibited area on the coast of the state of Mostaganem. Based on a detailed report prepared by the inspector of marine fishing and aquaculture for the state of Mostaganem, the Directorate of Marine Fishing and Aquaculture for the state of Chlef opened a supplementary investigation, which revealed the ship’s involvement in previous violations.

As a result, the marine fishing license of the vessel in question was immediately suspended, with the completion of all legal procedures applicable in such cases.

On the other hand, the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture issued instructions to open a second investigation in coordination between the Directorates of Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture of the states of Algeria and Tipaza, to investigate a similar incident.

It should be noted that, in addition to the administrative penalties imposed by the fishing and aquaculture authorities, these violations expose their perpetrators to penal penalties in accordance with applicable legislation.

On the other hand, the General Directorate of Marine Fishing and Aquaculture issued directives to intensify the outreach of marine fishing inspectors through various fishing ports and landing sites at the level of all coastal states, and to enhance coordination with the relevant departments of the Coast Guard.

In its statement, the General Directorate of Marine Fishing and Aquaculture also noted the effective role played by employees of the National Coast Guard in the field of monitoring and protecting fishing areas. It also praises the awareness of professionals and citizens and their keenness to report, and encourages the establishment of a culture of reporting because of its important role in reducing practices that harm fish wealth and the marine environment.