NNA - The Ministry of Agriculture announced in a statement on Saturday that following a complaint it received regarding the sale of dead fish in markets, originating from farms located on the banks of the Assi River in the Hermel region, the Ministry, through its Baalbek-Hermel Agriculture unit branch, immediately took action by sending its specialized teams to conduct a comprehensive field survey of all fish farms in the area.

During the inspection, the health status of the fish and farms was verified, and direct contact was made with farm owners to inform them of the health measures required to combat this phenomenon. Written pledges were also signed by the stakeholders to strictly adhere to health conditions and standards.

In parallel, the Agriculture Ministry referred the case to other relevant apparatuses, each within its jurisdiction, to ensure effective follow-up and prosecution of violators.

The Ministry confirmed that "follow-up is ongoing and intensive, given the risk this issue poses to food safety and public health, as well as to protect the reputation of Lebanese produce in local and foreign markets."

============R.Sh.