Illegally harvested clams seized in Abu Dhabi. EAD/ABU DHABI POLICE

A crackdown on illegal clamming continues in Abu Dhabi, with authorities warning that violators could face fines of up to Dh100,000 as well as jail terms. A number of poachers and people illegally selling clams and other shellfish were arrested in a two-month operation by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority. Ahmed Al Hashmi, acting executive director of terrestrial and marine biodiversity sector at EAD, said violators face a minimum of six months in jail and a fine of up to Dh100,000 for illegally harvesting oysters, shellfish and corals. “It is prohibited to extract oysters, sponges and coral reefs, except with permission, and we don’t issue any permissions for that purpose in the emirate,” Al Hashmi said. Authorities said that three cases of illegal oyster harvests were discovered in Al Salamiyah area and Bu Sayayif marine reserve. The violators were expected to face strict punishment. Meanwhile, 10 fish trading facilities were inspected in Abu Dhabi city along with 10 other facilities in Al Dhafra Region, including Delma Island. Authorities issued a final warning to five shops caught selling local oysters from an unknown source. Inspections are expected to continue. ICA/Expat Media
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