Mokpo Coast Guard Conducts Crackdown on Illegal Aquaculture Facilities

10 Operators of Unauthorized Gim Aquaculture Farms Caught
Mokpo Maritime Police Strengthen Crackdown on Illegal Aquaculture Facilities

Mokpo Maritime Police Station (Chief Kwon Oseong) conducted a comprehensive crackdown over two days, on the 20th and 21st, to prevent maritime accidents caused by illegal aquaculture facilities and to maintain maritime security.

According to Mokpo Maritime Police on the 22nd, the operation targeted illegally occupied or encroached aquaculture farms on public waters and shipping routes within the jurisdiction. The purpose was to block acts that obstruct maritime traffic, prevent crimes infringing on public livelihood such as theft, advance payment fraud, and illegal fishing, and to create a safer society.

Mokpo Coast Guard is cracking down on illegal aquaculture facilities. Photo by Mokpo Coast Guard Station

During this period, the police organized a dedicated inspection team and apprehended 10 individuals operating illegal Gim aquaculture farms in the areas of Sinan-gun and Muan-gun. Those caught are accused of violating the “Aquaculture Industry Development Act” by indiscriminately installing and operating Gim aquaculture farms in waters not authorized by the local government.

According to the “Aquaculture Industry Development Act,” a license from the mayor, county governor, or district head is required to engage in aquaculture, and farms can only be established within pre-designated areas.

A Mokpo Maritime Police official stated, “Recently, there has been an increase in illegal aquaculture facilities violating designated licensed areas, raising concerns about accidents caused by obstruction of vessel passage,” adding, “We will strengthen crackdowns on illegal aquaculture facilities to ensure maritime traffic safety.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.