Dar es Salaam leads in illegal fishing, says Police

Dar es Salaam’s coastline leads in illegal fishing activities that use explosives, a situation that threatens the life of the blue economy.

Speaking at a briefing, Assistant Commissioner of Police Moshi Sokoro said Dar es Salaam is closely followed by Lindi, Mtwara, and Pwani.

In the wake of the findings, the Police force, in collaboration with Marine Parks and Reserved Areas, has started a campaign to curb the illegal actions.

He said that in an operation that was conducted on June 17, some 17 suspects were arrested, and Seven others were still at large.

Apart from the suspects, they are also holding some of the equipment used, such as four boats, which were confiscated after a tip-off by other fishermen.

“We have found out that they use explosives made out of urea fertilizers in combination with other things to carry out these actions, which basically destroy the coral, which is the habitat and breeding ground for fish,” he said.

Earlier, Marine Parks Manager Dr. Immaculate Semesi said their job is to conserve, control, and protect marine resources, but the actions that are taking place are endangering fish breeding grounds.

Dr. Semesi added that security officers continue to monitor markets to identify fish caught using explosives.