Border guards apprehend individuals violating fishing regulations in Al-Qunfudhah

As part of the ongoing efforts of the security authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to protect marine resources and ensure compliance with regulations and laws, the coastal patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate in the Makkah Region were able to apprehend two Bangladeshi residents for their blatant violation of the security and safety regulations for those practicing marine activities.

The relevant authorities explained that the seizure was the result of close and continuous monitoring of the coastlines, which revealed that the violators were fishing without the necessary permits. Quantities of fish caught illegally were found in their possession. The competent authorities immediately initiated the necessary legal procedures against them, in preparation for referring them to the appropriate authorities for the application of the prescribed penalties.

The importance of adhering to fishing permits and maritime regulations

This initiative reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to regulating maritime activities and protecting the marine environment of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. The safety and security regulations for those engaged in maritime activities are a cornerstone for ensuring the safety of fishermen and recreational boaters, as well as playing a vital role in preserving fish stocks from overexploitation.

Fishing without a permit is a serious violation whose harm is not limited to the regulatory aspect only, but extends to pose a threat to the ecological balance, as permits aim to regulate the quantities, types and seasons of fishing in accordance with the sustainable environmental standards adopted by the Kingdom within Vision 2030, which pays great attention to protecting the marine environment and the sustainability of its resources for future generations.

The role of border guards in protecting the environment and society

The Saudi Border Guard's role extends beyond protecting the nation's land and sea borders from infiltration and smuggling; it also encompasses safeguarding national and environmental resources. Maritime and coastal patrols operate around the clock to monitor any violations that could harm wildlife or contravene the Kingdom's sovereign regulations within its territorial waters.

In closing, the General Directorate of Border Guards urged all citizens and residents to fully comply with the regulations and instructions related to fishing and marine recreation, stressing that preserving living aquatic resources is a shared national responsibility.

The Directorate also called on everyone to take the initiative to report any suspected cases or violations that constitute an attack on the environment or wildlife, by calling the emergency numbers: the number (911) in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, the Eastern Province and Madinah, or the numbers (994), (999) and (996) in the rest of the regions of the Kingdom, stressing that all reports are dealt with in complete confidentiality and without any legal responsibility on the informant.