THE EASTERN Naval Command in Tema has impounded 16 high powered generators and 17 high intensity lights from local fishermen who allegedly fixed them on their canoes for light fishing on the high seas.
The use of such equipment is contrary to the laid down Fisheries Regulations (LI1968) of the country, which prohibits fishing with light.
The local fishermen were alleged to be conducting their activities along the fishing communities between Prampram and Tema.
Commodore Albert Addison, Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, briefing pressmen yesterday, noted that his outfit, during their routine patrol on July 20, 2011, between 12:00am and 5:45, seized the mentioned items from the fishermen.
He is worried that fishermen, who took part in the drafting of the fisheries law, were refusing to abide by its terms and conditions.
He warned that the navy would continue to seize properties of �recalcitrant fishermen� who flouted the fisheries law, adding that the Naval Command would continue with its patrols from Aflao to all the fishing communities.
Commodore Addison said that the Ghana Navy and the Fisheries Department would continue with their series of sensitization exercises along the coastal areas to educate fishermen on the dangers of using generators and lighting for fishing.
Joseph Yeboah, Administrator at the Fisheries Commission, mentioned that the Fisheries Law was passed with the concern of the fishermen in August 2010.
He was of the view that it was proper for all the local fishermen to abide by the fisheries regulations.
This was the second time such equipment were being seized. The first time, 24 generators and 30 lights were seized.
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