Two Fined Thousands for Illegal Fishing on Yom Kippur

During Yom Kippur, Israel Nature and Parks Authority teams, alongside the Haifa Marine Police, apprehended two individuals suspected of illegal fishing off the coast of Shavei Zion. The suspects were using a speargun and an air generator, methods prohibited by law, and lacked the necessary fishing licenses. They were also found with fish of protected species, including the Alexandroni grouper.

Furthermore, the individuals were diving without a diver's flag, violating regulations and endangering themselves and other sea users. The Marine Police issued the suspects a fine totaling 3,200 shekels and opened a case against them for fishing with prohibited methods and harming protected natural values.

The Nature and Parks Authority reported that this incident was one of several cases of illegal fishing detected during the holiday. The authority's teams initiated approximately seven additional investigations for various offenses, including fishing with an unlicensed drone, using an unlicensed casting net, and fishing within a nature reserve. Additionally, 14 fines were issued for illegal driving on beaches, and two warnings were given for illegal overnight stays in a coastal nature reserve.