Water Patrols Expose Illegal Fishing during Prohibited Period

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has intensified efforts to prevent illegal fishing of the species of fish known as the Sig, as well as its sale, starting from November 20. This was stated in a press release from the police.

As a result of the undertaken measures, the Water Patrol of the Gegharkunik region stopped a 'VAZ' brand vehicle on December 6, at the 2nd kilometer of the Sevan-Martuni-Geghatap road for inspection. It was found that the vehicle, driven by a resident of Sevan, contained illegally caught Sig fish in the trunk.

The driver and the passenger, along with the vehicle, were taken to the Sevan division of the Community Police, where a total of 82 Sig fish were discovered in the trunk.

The next incident of illegal fishing was uncovered by the water patrol on December 7. During an inspection at the 6th kilometer of the Sevan-Martuni-Geghatap road, another 'VAZ' vehicle driven by a resident of Noratus was stopped. It was again determined that the trunk contained illegally caught Sig fish. The vehicle was taken to the Sevan division of the Community Police, where 154 Sig fish were found in the trunk.

Investigations are ongoing regarding these incidents. The police remind that fishing in Lake Sevan is prohibited until February 1. They caution that violations of hunting rules and illegal catches will result in penalties in accordance with the law.