More Than 1 Ton of Illegal Fish Caught

The Lake Sevan ecosystem is a living system, and any erroneous intervention can have profound and long-term consequences. The stance of the state here is clear and unequivocal: the preservation of water resources and wildlife is a strategic priority, and the measures aimed at protecting them are stringent, lawful, and consistent.

With this reality in mind, the fight against poaching has become a focal point for the Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Although awareness-raising activities were carried out before the ban on industrial fishing of carp in Lake Sevan, patrolling officers continue to uncover cases of poaching, notes Roman Grigoryan, commander of the first platoon of the Water Patrol.

The actions of the police are aimed not only at revealing violations but also at prevention, sending a clear message that no benefit is justified at the cost of disrupting the ecosystem.

From November 21 to December 23 alone, the patrol service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs discovered and seized over 2,613 fish, totaling more than 1,000 kilograms, that were illegally caught.

Patrol officers in the Gegharkunik region, in collaboration with eco-patrols from the Ministry of Environment, also discovered and seized 13 boats, 63 nets, boat engines, and paddles.

It is worth reminding that engaging in illegal fishing during the spawning season in Lake Sevan entails administrative and criminal liability. The fight against poaching requires the joint efforts and commitment of the state, society, and every citizen to preserve nature and biodiversity today for the future.