Photo/Somali Times
The Puntland marine forces has seized fishing boats that were fishing illegally off the coast of Puntland. The operation, which lasted for seven days, was carried out in a planned manner in different parts of the Puntland coast. During the operation, according to the ministry, a number of illegal fishing boats owned by foreigners were seized.
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A press release issued by the Puntland Ministry of Finance stated that three of the boats belonged to Yemeni citizens, while the fourth belonged to Iran. In addition, three boats that were used as infrastructure for illegal fishing were also seized during the operation.
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Two of the boats owned by the Yemenis have already been brought before the Bargaal District Court, which imposed fines and other sentences in accordance with Puntland laws related to illegal fishing.
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On the other hand, one Yemeni and three Iranian boats, carrying 45 foreign workers, were transferred to the city of Bosaso to be brought before the Court.
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The Puntland marine forces have issued a strong warning to Somali and foreign businessmen who are illegally fishing off the coast of Puntland.
Puntland has also threatened that anyone who resists the forces or uses armed militias to prevent the operation will face strict legal action, including being brought before the judicial and security institutions.