Algiers, Algeria – The General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture has suspended the license of a fishing vessel registered in the Chlef province after it was caught fishing in a prohibited zone. The move follows the circulation of video footage on social media platforms depicting several ‘Chalutiers’ type fishing vessels operating close to the shoreline.
According to a statement released by the Directorate, an immediate investigation was launched by local authorities following the emergence of the videos. The investigation identified the vessel, named ‘A.A-1’ and registered in Chlef, as being suspected of illegal fishing activities off the coast of Mostaganem province.
A detailed report prepared by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Inspector of Mostaganem led the Fisheries Directorate of Chlef to open a supplementary investigation. This investigation revealed that the vessel had a history of previous violations. Consequently, the fishing license for the vessel has been immediately suspended, and all applicable legal procedures are being pursued, the statement added.
In a separate but related incident, the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture has also ordered a second investigation, to be conducted jointly by the Fisheries Directorates of Algiers and Tipaza provinces, into a similar incident. The Directorate’s statement emphasized that in addition to administrative penalties imposed by the fisheries authorities, such violations are subject to criminal penalties under existing legislation.
Furthermore, the General Directorate has issued directives to intensify patrols by fisheries inspectors across various fishing ports and landing sites in all coastal provinces. Coordination with the Coast Guard and other relevant authorities is also being strengthened to prevent future incidents of illegal fishing.
