Ca Mau (VNA) – The High Command of Coast Guard Region 4 and border guards in the southernmost province of Ca Mau has been taking drastic measures to curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly violations relating to vessel monitoring systems (VMS).

The high command said that since April 2024, authorities have penalised 338 cases involving 391 fishing vessels, imposing fines totalling nearly 6 billion VND (230,900 USD).

Investigations have identified 21 cases linked to illegal transportation across borders and disruptions to computer and telecoms networks or electronic devices, with two criminal cases initiated for facilitating illegal immigration. Local courts have adjudicated three cases, sentencing 18 individuals to a total of over 96 years in prison.

To combat IUU fishing and work towards lifting the European Commission's "yellow card" warning for Vietnamese seafood, the high command has implemented robust measures, focusing on direct outreach to fishermen, particularly boat owners, captains and crew members, about sustainable fishing practices. The command has collaborated closely with specialised agencies and local governments to enforce the rules concerning VMS and to manage vessels that lose signal.

Major General Tran Van Luong, Commander of Coast Guard Region 4, has emphasised the need for all ranks to implement the directives and resolutions related to IUU fishing prevention and control. Accordingly, authorities and agencies thoroughly monitor fishing vessels to promptly identify and address violations, as well as investigate, verify and handle to properly assess the tricks used by fishing vessels, and tackle wrongdoings.

Colonel Pham Anh Chuong, Commander of the Border Guard in Ca Mau province, highlighted that the force will enhance operational effectiveness by closely monitoring maritime activities. They will further investigate and act against organisations and individuals facilitating illegal fishing in foreign waters, and stringently deal with any tampering with monitoring equipment on vessels.

The border guard force maintains strict inspection protocols for all fishing boats entering or leaving ports, increasing mobile checkpoints at the river mouths without border control stations. They are determined to prevent non-compliant vessels from operating at sea and are actively combating destructive fishing practices along the coastal borders.

Additionally, technology is being leveraged to manage and control fishing activities, aiding in the fight against IUU fishing, he said, adding that the border guard in Ca Mau has effectively patrolled and monitored maritime borders, ensuring all boat owners and captains commit them൲selves not to engage in illegal fishing in foreign waters and adhere to legal regulations./.