The District Fisheries Department in Katihar, Bihar, successfully apprehended a significant consignment of banned Thai Magur (African catfish) fish, weighing approximately 50 quintals and valued at around Rs 5 lakh. The operation took place near the Routara toll plaza on September 15, according to District Fisheries Officer (DFO) Sanad Kumar Singh. Following intelligence reports, Singh led a team that intercepted a vehicle transporting the prohibited fish from Kolkata to Purnia.

DFO Singh outlined the timeline of the operation, stating that the team mobilised early in the morning, specifically between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. The interception occurred at the toll plaza, just ahead of the Routara police station, where officers discovered the transportation of the banned species. The proactive measures were taken to prevent the illegal consignment from reaching local markets.

During the operation, DFO Singh reiterated the complete prohibition of the invasive species, noting that its farming, consumption, and transportation are illegal under existing regulations. The entire seized quantity will be disposed of in accordance with environmental safety protocols, as outlined by the relevant authorities.

Concerns Over Administrative Oversight

In response to concerns about possible administrative complicity in the illegal fish trade, DFO Singh dismissed claims of official involvement. He emphasised that the administration and the fisheries department are continuously engaging in public awareness campaigns regarding the illegalities surrounding Thai Magur. However, he acknowledged that improvements in police vigilance are necessary at transit checkposts.

DFO Singh explained that while there is no evidence of administrative complicity, there have been instances where police vigilance could be enhanced. The department is committed to immediate action when illegal consignments are detected and urges stricter monitoring along transport routes.

This raid follows a larger initiative within Bihar to bolster surveillance and food safety checks in the wake of recent flooding in neighbouring Nepal. Authorities are concerned about the increased risk of illegal fish consignments entering the state through interstate corridors, particularly during emergencies.

Reactions from Detained Traders

The operation has ignited controversy, especially after the three detained individuals alleged that they routinely conducted the illicit cross-border trade with the complicity of local police stations. They claimed to “manage” interactions with law enforcement officials along the transit routes, casting doubt on the effectiveness of current monitoring systems.

Despite these allegations, District Fisheries Officer Singh maintains that such claims should not be taken at face value without substantial proof. He underscored the ongoing efforts of the authorities to eradicate the illegal fishing trade while asserting that the community’s awareness plays a crucial role in combating this issue.

As the investigation proceeds, officials remain focused on strengthening border checks and enhancing collaboration between different agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future. The focus remains on ensuring sustainability in fisheries and protecting local ecosystems from invasive species.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share