Video: Attempt to Steal a Large Batch of Fry Released in Karchaghbyur and Masrik Rivers

The Minister of Environment Romanos Petrosyan published a video on his Facebook page, stating: "This morning it became clear that some poachers attempted to steal approximately 280,000 juvenile Sevan's whitefish, recently released in the Karchaghbyur and Masrik rivers, using net installations. The special ranger unit of 'Sevan' National Park found a small net extending across the river during a routine patrol in the lower areas of Karchaghbyur, through which the poachers attempted to gather fish bred through a state-funded program, which is on the brink of extinction in Lake Sevan.

These juvenile fish, averaging 7 grams in weight, were targeted for the gain of the poachers, prioritizing their interests over state, public, and environmental benefits. The 'Sevan's Whitefish Resource Restoration and Aquaculture Development Fund' is funded by the state budget, with the aim to restore the unique fish species that are on the edge of extinction due to overfishing.

While some factions, exploiting information available online, have attempted to take advantage of the release locations for their gain, the consistent and well-coordinated actions of the 'Sevan' Park rangers successfully located and removed the net. The juvenile fish that had been trapped have been released again.

The rangers of 'Sevan' National Park will continue 24-hour surveillance, diligently monitoring their assigned areas to prevent such contemptible incidents.