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Authorities struggle with fight against illegal fishing
Local authorities in Southeast Ca Mau Province say they are out of their depth battling illegal fishing in the area.
According to Nguyen Viet Thang, Vice Chairman of Dat Mui Commune, most commune residents earn a living by fishing, and are tempted by the huge profits made through illegal fishing.
"The commune authorities have nearly given up. If violators are caught red handed, their boat is confiscated and they are fined, they have to pay a maximum VND500,000. Most are willing to pay the fine, take back their motor-boats and fish illegally again," said Thang.
He said that most residents had cellphones, and used them to inform others of good fishing spots – mostly in areas where fishing is banned – as well as to warn of inspection teams.
According to Phu Thi Liet, a fisherman from Dat Mui Commune, about 120 families are fishing in areas where fishing is banned. He said fisherman from Bac Lieu, Ben Tre and Tra Vinh Provinces also come there to fish illegally.
Ca Mau Province has a coast line of 254km. More than 100 species of fish and 20 varieties of shrimp are found in the stretch of shallow waters off the coast. Fishing was banned as fish congregate and reproduce in the area, helping to replenish much needed fish stocks.
VNS
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