Crackdown in Goheungman Waters... Up to 5 Years Imprisonment or Fine up to 50 Million Won for Violations
The West Sea Regional Coast Guard announced on the 2nd that it has apprehended a fishing vessel that discharged bilge water containing waste oil into the sea through cooperation between aerial patrols and patrol boats.
The incident occurred on the 1st when the Yeosu Air Unit, patrolling the areas of Yeosu City and Goheung County in Jeollanam-do, discovered a marine pollution patch measuring 200m in length and 2m in width near the Geogeum Bridge in Goheung County.
Suspecting that the discovered marine pollution patch originated from a vessel discharge, the Coast Guard decided to respond promptly. The Yeosu Air Unit conducted evidence collection operations in the area and notified the Yeosu Coast Guard Station to share the situation.
On the 1st, the Yeosu Air Unit of the West Sea Regional Coast Guard Agency is cracking down on a vessel that illegally discharged bilge water in the waters of Goheung Bay, Yeosu City. [Photo by West Sea Regional Coast Guard Agency]
At the same time, the Nokdong Police Substation also dispatched patrol boats to the scene, collected pollution samples, and inspected a 5-ton suspected vessel, securing a statement regarding the discharge.
The Coast Guard attempted to install oil fences and oil-absorbent pads to respond to the pollution patch, but due to waves and delays, the pollution naturally dissipated, and containment operations were not carried out.
In cases where pollutants are discharged into the sea, accidental discharge can result in imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to 30 million KRW, while intentional discharge can lead to imprisonment of up to 5 years or a fine of up to 50 million KRW.
The fishing vessel is expected to face criminal charges for boarding more crew members than recorded in the port entry and exit system, failing to report changes in crew, and discharging pollutants.
Given the importance of protecting the marine environment, strict punishment is expected for those who commit such environmentally destructive acts.
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