Contaminated Fish: Crackdown on vendors launched

Fishermen in the Littoral Region have resorted to using toxic products in order to improve catches while those who smoke fish use worn-out car tyres and plastics, thereby endangering the health of consumers. The practice is said to be gaining grounds in some areas of Douala II Subdivision. Contaminated fish is recognised by its softness, smell, presence of maggots and many flies.

Following the gravity of the situation, the Sub-Divisional Delegate for Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industry, MINEPIA, for Douala II, Alain Ghomsi, led a delegation of sanitary inspectors to impound fish so caught or treated, sensitising stakeholders on the effects. The operation will run till the end of January 2016.

According to Ghomsi, consumption of such fish could cause tuberculosis and cancer. Since the practice is mostly carried out by people without medical and veterinary clearance, Alain Ghomsi advised consumers to insist that vendors should present their certificates before purchasing both fresh and dry fish.

In addition to the certificates, vendors must henceforth put on aprons or jackets not just to look good, but also to prevent any disease transmission to their fish.

To ensure quality control, the MINEPIA Divisional Delegate for Wouri, Dr Mimbang Goy Iréne, said additional staff were recruited to reinforce daily inspections on the field.

They inspect smoking units to make sure that only wood from consumable fruit trees is used. Dr Mimbang warned those who fail to respect the 2000 Law on sanitary inspection of serious consequences. Contraveners risk two to six years in jail with hard labour and a fine of 50,000 FCFA to 5 million FCFA.