Two Arrested for Illegal Fishing During Yom Kippur

During Yom Kippur, Israel Nature and Parks Authority maritime units, operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and police from the Haifa Maritime Police conducted patrols following intelligence suggesting attempts to exploit the fasting holiday for illegal fishing. Off the coast of Shlomi, two suspects were apprehended using prohibited spearfishing equipment and an air generator. Authorities noted that in addition to using illegal methods and lacking permits, the suspects were found in possession of species banned from fishing, including the Alexandroni grouper. They were also diving without a diver's flag, posing a significant risk to themselves and others. The suspects were fined NIS 3,200 by the Maritime Police, and a case was opened against them for fishing with prohibited methods and harming protected natural values. The Nature and Parks Authority also reported approximately seven other investigations opened for harming natural values, including fishing with drones or unlicensed casting nets, and fishing within a nature reserve. Enforcement actions on beaches also resulted in 14 tickets for illegal driving on beaches and two warnings for illegal overnight stays in a coastal nature reserve.