Jeddah border guards apprehend a violator of marine fishing regulations

The Coast Guard patrols in Jeddah, Makkah Province, announced the arrest of a citizen for violating the safety and security regulations for those engaged in maritime activities within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's territorial waters. This operation is part of ongoing efforts by security and regulatory authorities to address violations that threaten fish stocks and the marine environment.

The relevant authorities explained that the violation consisted of fishing without the necessary permits and using prohibited fishing gear, which constitutes a clear violation of applicable environmental regulations. All legal procedures have been taken against the violator, and he has been referred to the competent authorities to complete the investigations and apply the legally prescribed penalties.

Protecting water resources: a national priority

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places great importance on protecting its marine environment, particularly in the Red Sea region, which boasts unique biodiversity and rare coral reefs. The General Directorate of Border Guards, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, is working to enforce strict controls to prevent overfishing and the use of nets or equipment that damage the seabed or deplete fish stocks. These efforts are an integral part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives, specifically the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative, which aims to protect natural areas and ensure the sustainability of vital resources for future generations.

The dangers of illegal fishing and its environmental impact

Fishing without a permit and using prohibited gear pose a significant threat to the ecological balance. These practices lead to the catching of juvenile fish before they reach reproductive age and the destruction of natural habitats for marine life. Regulations in the Kingdom emphasize the necessity of obtaining official licenses that ensure sustainable fishing practices and adherence to permitted seasons, thus guaranteeing the replenishment of natural resources.

Call for compliance and reporting channels

In closing, the General Directorate of Border Guards urged all citizens, residents, and sea users to fully comply with regulations and instructions related to the protection of living aquatic resources. It emphasized that community awareness is the first line of defense for the environment.

The directorate also urged everyone to report any instances of environmental or wildlife abuse, emphasizing that reports will be treated with complete confidentiality and without any liability on the part of the reporter. Reports can be made through the following channels:

• The number (911) is used in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.
• The numbers (994) , (999) and (996) are in the rest of the regions of the Kingdom.