Freetown — To enforce the ban on bad fishing practices and the use of illegal nets by local artisanal fishermen, the Maritime wing of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has arrested five fishing boats along the Kent and Fogbo communities respectively.

Lt. AK Dumbuya told journalists in Freetown that the five fishing boats that were impounded include OTS, Bintumani, 2+1, Hard Way and Young Star.

"We were able to seize the boats after a patrol along Kent and Fogbo on January 23 this year. We also seized a number of illegal fishing nets and outboard machines," he revealed.

Lt. Dumbuya also informed journalists that a total of nine illegal fishing nets and six outboard engines have so far being impounded in some areas during their robust patrol.

"The items are currently under the custody of the Maritime wing for prompt action by the ministry of fisheries and marine resources," he said.

Lt. Dumbuya maintained that they would continue to sensitize the local people not to engage in bad and illegal fishing while they enforce the laws.

"The punishment that will be imposed by the ministry of fisheries and marine resources on the perpetrators will serve as lesson to others," he said.

He noted that the Maritime wing remains committed to combating all illegal fishing activities that would have negative impact on fishing activities in the country.