Russia Launches First Online Anti-Poaching Reporting Tool on Sakhalin Island

Residents of Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands can now report illegal fishing activity directly through a mobile app.

Russia has introduced its first online tool aimed at combating poaching. The new service, called 'Poacher’s Window,' has launched in Sakhalin Oblast through the regional app 'Ostrova.65' (rated 6+). It was developed by the regional Ministries of Fisheries and Digital & Technological Development, following instructions from Governor Valery Limarenko, according to SakhalinMedia.

Residents of Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands can now instantly alert authorities to incidents of illegal fishing using their smartphones. To do so, users must log into the 'Ostrova.65' app and access the 'Report a Poacher' section. After providing their information and the location of the violation, they can upload photos or videos if available, describe the situation, and hit 'Send.'

According to Ivan Radchenko, Sakhalin’s Minister of Fisheries, public participation will be crucial to protecting aquatic life. Authorities also believe the initiative will foster a greater sense of responsibility among both locals and visitors.

The system is expected to expand nationwide and may serve as a model for similar initiatives beyond Russia’s borders.