Corruption therefore makes the eradication of this illegal and destructive fishing method extremely difficult. Very few cases of cyanide fishing are brought to court, and usually the offenders are released after payment of a 'fine'. Corruption at the lower government levels is almost inevitable, considering the large bribes paid and the low salaries for government officials. This combined with a lack of funds and facilities for enforcement, lack of knowledge and awareness with the authorities, and lack of political will at all levels, means that the cyanide fishing still continues largely unhindered. The biggest problem is finding support at higher levels for banning destructive practices.
Most authorities seem disinterested.
Political will has to be developed through increased awareness of macro-economical problems caused by destructive fishing such as its impacts on tourism and fishing. An overview and comparison of destructive fishing practices in Indonesia.