IN a public notice issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) reiterated the ongoing prohibition on the harvesting, possession, landing, receiving, buying, selling or exportation of any species of Beche-de-mer (BDM).
The ban, which has been in effect since 1 September 2022, was published in the Gazette of Prohibited Activities (Fishing and Possession of Beche-de-mer) Order 2021.
The directive applies to all stakeholders, including company holders of Beche-de-mer licenses, buyers, and exporters of BDM, as well as local communities, fishermen, fisherwomen and the general public.
According to the MFMR Notice, Compliance Officers from the ministry in collaboration with the Royal Solomon Islands Police will be conducting thorough inspections.
“These inspections will cover all vessels upon arrival at Honiara Port, as well as premises, storages, warehouses, containers, and dwelling houses to identify any suspicions of BDM-related activities.
“Individuals are reminded to comply with any instructions given by Compliance Officers or the Police during the inspection process. Any person found in possession of BDM or BDM products will be subject to prosecution in accordance with the fisheries laws of the Solomon Islands,” it said.
The announcement, signed by Director of Fisheries at MFMR, Edward Honiwala serves as a stern warning to deter illegal activities related to BDM, a valuable marine resource that plays a crucial role in the ecosystem.
It said Solomon Islands Government is committed to the sustainable management of its marine resources and the ban on BDM aims to protect the species from over-exploitation, ensuring its long-term survival in the region.
(MFMR/SOLSTAR)
