Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment in Egypt, Manal Awad, announced on Sunday the arrest of a group of fishermen involved in the capture of a whale shark, a rare and endangered marine creature. This came after Environment Ministry monitored videos circulating on social media documenting the capture of the whale shark and its inhumane treatment, sparking outrage online. Awad emphasized that the accused will be referred to the competent legal authorities after their involvement in catching a rare and endangered marine species was proven. This action is part of ongoing efforts to protect biodiversity and marine life in Egypt and to enforce the law. The Ministry of Environment emphasized the importance of cooperation and community participation in protecting rare marine life, urging citizens to report any practices that threaten marine life.

Source: Egypt Independent January 26, 2026 09:38 UTC