Around 1,000 cases
of violations of environmental legislation were detected in the water bodies of
the Zhaiyk-Caspian Basin. A total of 669 people were brought to administrative
responsibility. Additionally, 36 criminal cases were initiated in relation to
poaching and the illegal trade of rare and endangered fish species. The
violators were collectively fined an amount exceeding 15.5 million tenge. The
results of the Bekire-2023 Fish Protection Campaign were summed up by
representatives of the Fisheries Committee of the country’s Ministry of Ecology
and Natural Resources. This annual large-scale event is aimed at preserving
endangered fish species and combat illegal fishing practices targeting
them.
“Around 68 tonnes
of fish, including approximately 1000 kg of sturgeon species and 29 kg of
sturgeon roe, were seized from illegal trade. Additionally, 295 fishing devices,
76 units of water transport, and 13 vehicles were confiscated. Through daily
trawling of riverbeds and the sea area, a total of 743 units of illegal fishing
gear with a combined length exceeding 74 km were recovered from the water
bodies,” Ayan Bakhiyanov, spokesperson for the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and
Natural Resources, said.
It bears noting
that the information system, which is currently being tested, will aid in
combating the illicit trade of fish products. Experts say that this system will
enable comprehensive monitoring of the entire process, from the fish catch to
the sale to the end consumer. In line with this goal, the relevant ministry is
currently procuring drones and specialized night vision equipment. Overall,
around two billion tenge has been allocated this year to enhance the material
and technical base of the country's fisheries inspections.
