Banned fine fishing nets seized
from creek in Ras Al Khaimah

The department also seized huge quantities of fish including baby or young fishes which were found trapped in these nets.

Abdullah Shuraiki, Chairman of the department, said the officials found these unauthorised fishing nets placed in different areas of the creek by unidentified fishermen on Saturday evening. Despite the Ministry of Environment and Water prohibiting the use of fine nets, some fishermen continue to use them. “It is wrong for fishermen to use fine nets that trap baby fishes and other small creatures which will reduce the emirate’s fish stocks,” said Shuraiki.

The banned nets that were seized ranged from 400 to 500 metres, said Khalifah Butti, an official of the department who was among the team that confiscated the nets.

“It took more than two hours for the officials to lift these fishing nets from the water. Scores of baby fishes were found trapped in them,” said Butti.

The officials removed the nets from the creek with the help of an Emirati resident and two Asian workers living near the sea. All trapped baby fishes were released in the sea.

The seized nets have been handed over to the Ras Al Khaimah Municipality for destroying them.

According to Butti, the authorities have launched an investigation to track down the errant fishermen and owners of the seized nets who have been violating the laws.

According to the authorities, only select types of fishing nets, especially those with wider netting, are allowed since they allow the small fishes to escape. All fishermen are supposed to get their fishing nets approved by the Fisheries Department.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com