Illegal fishing in the Syrdarya: a half-billion blow to nature

In the Syrdarya region, a special rapid preventive measure was carried out by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change to prevent criminal activities against nature. Within the framework of the event, serious violations related to illegal fishing in the Syrdarya River were identified in collaboration with state environmental control inspectors and law enforcement agencies.

During the raid, inspectors noticed a "Moskvich" brand vehicle coming out of the Syrdarya River. The vehicle was stopped, and upon inspection of its cargo area, a number of prohibited items and caught fish were found. As a result of the inspection, the following were discovered in the cargo area:
1 electric fishing device (electro-fishing)
1 rubber boat
3 batteries
19 various types of fish

It was revealed that these fish were caught illegally, and it was noted that most of them belong to protected and significant species. Among the caught fish were:
2 white amur (a species playing an important role in the ecosystem)
7 white bream
9 catfish
1 Turkestan catfish listed in the Red Book

Specifically, the Turkestan catfish (Latin name: Aspiolucius esocinus) is a fish species that is at risk of extinction in Uzbekistan and the region, and is specially protected by UNESCO and the national Red Book. Catching this fish species is considered not only a violation of the law but also a cowardly attack against biological diversity.

Catching fish using electric devices is not only prohibited but also poses a significant ecological threat. Under its influence, other organisms in the water, including aquatic plants and noble fish, also perish. This method can disrupt the ecosystem of water bodies and lead to the loss of natural balance.

According to estimates, the damage caused to wildlife as a result of this illegal fishing amounts to 495 million soums. This figure indicates not only material loss but also immeasurable harm to ecology.

Currently, all documents regarding this case have been sent to the relevant law enforcement agencies, and strict measures are expected to be taken against the individuals who committed the crime. Experts in the field of ecology and nature protection emphasize that the increase in such cases poses a huge threat to the environment.

Ecologists are urging the public to firmly refrain from such illegal fishing practices and to preserve nature's gifts for future generations.