What Crew Members Say About Mediva-Star

Vitaly Dukach, the captain of the fishing vessel 'Mediva Star,' has been summoned to the Walvis Bay Magistrate's Court to face allegations of illegal fishing in restricted maritime zones. The charges stem from activities conducted in October 2019, where it is claimed the 'Mediva Star' fished within a prohibitive 200-metre depth area. The vessel operates under the ownership of Joka Two Fishing, a company linked to prominent Namibian political figures, including former Swapo parliamentarian Theo Diergaardt. After a lengthy absence from Namibia, Dukach returned this week to surrender to authorities, as he was previously unable to be charged while out of the country. He has since been released on bail set at N$100,000, with his next court date scheduled for March 11, 2020. Dukach’s case adds to a growing list of foreign captains who have faced legal action for violations of the Marine Resources Act by fishing in prohibited waters.