Three of the river guards who are responsible for protecting the Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin conservation area were dismissed by the Kratie provincial administration on February 19.

The provincial agriculture department uncovered evidence that the three had allowed fishermen to use electric shock devices in the conservation area, in exchange for undisclosed personal benefits.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries confirmed their dismissal on February 20.

A dismissal letter, signed by Kratie provincial governor Var Thorn, identified the three dismissed river guards.

Seng Kosal, served as deputy chief of the Koh Phdau Dolphin Conservation Post, while Kan Vanna and Muong Keo Lay were identified as guards from the Chrouy Banteay Dolphin Conservation Post.

The dismissals followed stern warnings from undersecretary of state at the agriculture ministry Im Rachna, who visited the Kampi Dolphin Conservation Area last week.

During an address to the assembled guards, she made it very clear that collusion between river guards and illegal fishermen — especially those who using electric shock devices, large gill nets or longlines — would not be tolerated.

Anyone found violating conservation rules would be immediately removed from their position.

“The dismissal of the three guards was based on clear evidence, and supported by the confessions of suspects who were arrested for using electric shock devices during a recent crackdown,” explained Rachna.

She also emphasised that fisheries conservation remains a top priority for the ministry, alongside the protection of the Irrawaddy dolphins, which are considered a national treasure.

Agriculture minister Dith Tina has expressed strong support for the river guards, who patrol 24/7 to protect the Kingdom’s aquatic resources.

He has also urged continuous crackdowns on illegal fishing practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the country’s fisheries.

Rachna encouraged the remaining river guards to continue their work with integrity and responsibility, reinforcing their critical role in safeguarding Cambodia’s natural heritage.

In early 2025, three new dolphin calves were born, bringing the Kingdom’s total population of Irrawaddy dolphins to 107.