National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

During a raid carried out on the territory of the "Sholikor" Water Users Association in Syrdarya District, it was found that citizens B.Kh. and N.A. were engaged in illegal fishing using a prohibited method — an electric fishing rod — on a section of the Syrdarya River passing through the area. The violators had loaded 79 fish of various species, along with fishing equipment, into a vehicle with the intent to sell the catch at the Chinaz Fish Market in Tashkent Region. However, they were apprehended by state environmental inspectors.

Statements were taken from the violators and an official report was drawn up in accordance with established procedures. The illegally caught fish and fishing gear were seized and placed in temporary storage pending legal evaluation. Additionally, the vehicle used in the offense was impounded and placed in a penalty lot, in accordance with subparagraph "b" of Article 291 of the Code of Administrative Liability of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

This act of illegal fishing violated Articles 34 and 35 of the Law “On the Protection and Use of Wildlife.” According to Resolution No. 80 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan, dated February 9, 2025, the total environmental damage caused is estimated at 973,125,000 sums.

The case materials have been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for legal review.

For reference: Several other cases of illegal fishing have also been recorded in Syrdarya Region, and documentation has been submitted to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.