In a decisive move to protect marine biodiversity, authorities in Fujairah have confiscated six fishing vessels engaged in illegal activities within the Bird Island Reserve. The Fujairah Environment Authority (FEA) conducted the operation during routine field inspections as part of an ongoing monitoring campaign. FEA Director Asila Al Mualla emphasized that fishing within marine reserves constitutes a severe environmental violation and is subject to legal penalties. The monitoring system employs daily oversight, scheduled field visits, and advanced surveillance technologies to detect and address illegal activities promptly. Al Mualla highlighted the importance of protecting Fujairah’s natural reserves, which serve as vital habitats for coral reefs, small fish, and endangered species. Illegal fishing disrupts food chains, depletes fish stocks, and damages coral structures, which are essential for marine life. Additionally, fishing near diving sites poses risks to divers and sea users due to potential entanglement in fishing lines or accidents involving high-speed boats. The FEA stressed that safeguarding these reserves is crucial for environmental sustainability, allowing fish populations to recover and reproduce in safe habitats. These efforts also support the blue economy by promoting eco-tourism and sustainable diving practices. Al Mualla reiterated the FEA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and urged fishers and sea users to comply fully to preserve Fujairah’s natural resources for future generations. This crackdown underscores the emirate’s dedication to balancing human activity with environmental protection.
UAE: 6 illegal fishing boats seized amid crackdown in Fujairah’s Bird Island Reserve
