Coast Guard arrests three for illegal fishing and assaulting security officer

On Sunday morning, during a routine maritime surveillance operation, personnel from the General Directorate of the Coast Guard spotted a vessel engaged in illegal fishing activities in clear violation of national regulations.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, Coast Guard personnel attempted to stop the boat’s captain, but he ignored the orders and fled at high speed toward the shore.

The authorities pursued the boat until it reached the coastline, where the captain abandoned the vessel and attempted to flee the scene in his vehicle, reports Al-Rai daily.

During the escape attempt, he tried to run over a security officer, but was quickly subdued and taken into custody. No injuries were reported among the security personnel.

Investigations revealed that the vessel was not registered for fishing and was operating without a valid permit, further breaching legal requirements.

The incident resulted in the arrest of three suspects — one Kuwaiti and two stateless persons — all of whom have prior criminal records.

The Ministry confirmed that, in accordance with legal procedures, the boat involved in the crime was confiscated and destroyed. The suspects have been referred to the competent authorities to face all necessary legal actions.

The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing maritime laws and protecting the country’s territorial waters.