BY: LATONYA ROBERTS
Journal Staff Writer

While the Bahamas has faced a long and consistent challenge with poaching
from the south mainly by commercial fishermen from the Dominican Republic,
it has always been known that there is also a threat from the north mainly from
American fishermen and fishing charters that also cause The Bahamas millions
of dollars in lost revenue for Bahamian fishermen and fishing tour operators.
Recently, an American vessel was seized after being caught operating illegally
in waters off West End Grand Bahama, the captain and crew were arrested and
charged before the courts.
On Wednesday. the Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo
Campbell led a press conference to address this issue. 
Campbell said, “on Monday, the 27th of January, a foreign fishing charter
vessel, named Highly Migratory, was seized in waters off of Grand
Bahama after being found in violation of several Bahamian laws, including the
Fisheries Regulations and the Firearms Act”. 
“The vessel operator and crew members were arrested and are now facing
serious charges before the courts. This successful operation was made possible
by the vigilance of local citizens who raised concerns about illegal operation
running an unlicensed foreign charter business in Bahamian waters.”
Director of Marine Resources Gregory Bethel added, “And in this instance,
because of the high fines and penalties, they are normally dealt with in the
Supreme Court. This case is being adjudicated on behalf of the Commissioner
of Police by senior officers of the Office of the Attorney General. Our office,
the Department of Marine Resources, in addition to the other agencies already
mentioned, are there to provide evidence and assistance”.
Minister Campbell highlighted a project that was created to further the
protection of our waters and marine life.
“Operation Red Dawn was launched with a clear and strong mission. That
being, to ensure that our natural fisheries are protected to the highest standards. 
For many years, Bahamian fishermen have raised their voices in concern over
illegal operations threatening our waters, our economy, and quite simply, our
way of life”, he said.