Donggala, Sulteng – Destructive fishing, also known as using bombs to catch fish illegally, is a serious issue that threatens marine ecosystems and livelihoods. In a recent press conference held at the Marine Police Headquarters in Donggala, Central Sulawesi, the Regional Police revealed the successful crackdown on three cases of illegal fishing using explosives.
According to AKBP Sugeng Lestari, the Head of Public Relations at the Central Sulawesi Regional Police, the first incident took place in the waters of Teluk Tomini, specifically in the village of Sijoli, Moutong District, Parigi Moutong Regency. Three individuals, identified as I (41 years old), D (37 years old), and K (48 years old) from Torsiaji Village, Popayato District, Bualemo Regency, Gorontalo Province, were apprehended. The authorities seized 15 bottles of explosives, 60 kilograms of fish, and other fishing equipment from the perpetrators.
The second case occurred approximately 20 nautical miles off the coast of Jawi-Jawi Village, Bungku Selatan District, Morowali Regency. The suspect, identified as S (43 years old) from Buton Village, Bungku Selatan District, Morowali Regency, was found in possession of four bottles of explosives, five kilograms of fish, and fishing gear.
The third incident took place in the coastal waters of Rata Village, Toili District, Banggai Regency. A 20-year-old suspect, identified as F, was captured with eight bottles of fish bombs and 10 kilograms of fish. All five perpetrators are currently detained at the Marine Police Headquarters for further investigation.
The individuals involved in these illegal fishing activities are facing charges under Article 84 paragraph 1 of Law No. 45 of 2009 concerning Fisheries, in conjunction with Article 55 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. If convicted, they could face up to six years in prison.
Throughout 2024, the Marine Police in Central Sulawesi have handled a total of 12 fisheries-related criminal cases, with nine cases already resolved. AKBP Sugeng attributed the success in uncovering these crimes to the cooperation and information provided by the community, which enabled law enforcement to conduct thorough investigations and apprehend the perpetrators.
The crackdown on destructive fishing practices in Central Sulawesi highlights the ongoing efforts to protect marine resources and combat illegal fishing activities. By holding individuals accountable for their actions and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of destructive fishing, authorities aim to safeguard the marine environment for future generations.
