Alarm raised as Kenyan vessel found illegally fishing in Mozambique

Conservationists have raised alarm after a Kenyan fishing vessel was apprehended for illegally fishing in the Mozambique Channel.

The vessel, Maab Aqua, was impounded by Madagascar’s law enforcement in Banc du Leven on July 8.

Madagascar Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy said the vessel had 5.2 tonnes of whole sharks, 70kg of shark fins and 135kg of salted sharks.

Some fish in the vessel are endangered species protected by international and national laws.

The Kenyan-licensed and Sri Lankan-operated vessel is said to have been operating in Kenya and its activities had previously raised suspicion.

Madagascar and most countries in the West Indian Ocean, have prohibitions against fishing of endangered sharks for fins and meat.

This unsustainable exploitation of marine resources impacts conservation efforts of endangered species leading to extinctions and collapsed ecosystems.

The illegal fishing now puts agencies meant to curb illegal fishing on the spot.

"The seizure of the Kenyan boat Maab Aqua caught in the act of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing is one of the fruits of the fisheries administration's efforts for better governance of natural resources in Madagascar," said Razakamanarina President Voahary Gasy Alliance.

"Malagasy civil society including the Voahary Gasy Alliance, calls for exemplary sanctions against these unscrupulous traffickers to restore the image of justice in the face of the mistreatment of productive resources cases."

A senior official from Kenya Fisheries Service who requested anonymity said they have not received any communication from Madagascar.

“The office of the Principal Secretary and director general can comment. We are not allowed to comment,” the official said.

Conservation Alliance of Kenya CEO Steve Itela said cooperation is crucial to effect arrests and prosecutions.

"The discovery of Maab Aqua’s illegal catch highlights the scale of the threat to marine biodiversity. Strong enforcement and international collaboration are critical to preventing further damage," he said.

The Malagasy enforcement authorities have been called upon to jointly investigate the vessel owners for benefiting from the proceeds of illegal fishing.

Following the impounding of the vessel and the arrest of the crew, the Kenyan government has been urged to improve its licensing and vetting.

It has also been asked to enhance its enforcement response, particularly through the Kenya Fisheries Service and Kenya Coast Guard.

Already, 12 conservation organisations have written to Madagascar’s Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy appealing for maximum penalties.

“We therefore appeal to you to; impose substantial financial penalties on both the crew and the owners of the vessel as a punitive measure,” the letter said.

Some of the organisations that have signed the letter include Ulinzi Africa Foundation, Alliance Voahary Gasy and Lawyers for Animal Protection in Africa.

The organisations said Kenya has encountered considerable difficulties in tackling marine wildlife crime and IUU fishing and they firmly believe that Madagascar can serve as a strong example for the region.

“Through exhibiting unwavering dedication to enforcement and implementing rigorous penalties, Madagascar will establish a powerful regional standard. We are confident that your leadership can inspire a regional shift towards zero tolerance for these crimes, safeguarding our shared marine heritage for generations to come.”

The organisations also want Madagascar’s ministry to evaluate the possibility of detaining the crew for violations of Immigration laws and confiscate and forfeit the Maab Aqua fishing vessel, along with its gears, related instruments, and any incidental assets.

“Place Maab Aqua and its owners on a blacklist, and deny them any future fishing licenses to operate in Malagasy waters due to their involvement in previous illegal, unregulated, or unreported fishing activities.”