The Ministry of Tourism has announced that it is advising the Tourism Police to prosecute all those found catching star fish as this is in violation of the laws protecting the marine resources of the country. Frank Jorge Elías said that for some time now he has observed how in some areas, principally Barahona and Pedernales, star fish are caught for use as bait by local fishermen. He has asked the National Department of Parks and the Navy to join in the fight and take measures to stop the practice.