Illegal Fishermen Abandon Divers During Yucatán Ban

Dzilam de Bravo, Yucatán — Four divers were left stranded at sea after illegal fishermen fled an inspection by maritime authorities near the Yalkubul lighthouse, several kilometers off the coast of Dzilam de Bravo. The incident occurred during a joint operation by the Mexican Navy (Semar) and the National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission (Conapesca), targeting vessels suspected of harvesting protected marine species during the seasonal fishing ban.

Authorities Intercept Illegal Fishing Operation

During the inspection, officials detected five unauthorized boats allegedly harvesting species under veda (fishing ban), including octopus, lobster, conch, and sea cucumber. Upon spotting authorities, the vessels—equipped with high-powered engines—quickly fled, abandoning four divers who had been conducting underwater extraction.

Preliminary reports link the fishermen to an individual known as “El Calaco,” who operates an illegal network exploiting marine resources during restricted periods.

Divers Rescued After Initial Refusal

The divers initially refused assistance, claiming another boat would retrieve them. However, they eventually relented and were transported to the Port Captaincy in Río Lagartos. Authorities also seized illegal fishing equipment, including Hawaiian spears, hooks, and hammers.

Illegal fishing threatens marine biodiversity and undermines sustainable resource management in the region. Violators face legal penalties for harvesting during veda periods, which are designed to protect reproductive cycles of key species:

• Octopus: January 1–July 31 and August 1–29
• Lobster: March 1–June 30
• Grouper: February 1–March 31

Government Efforts to Combat Illegal Fishing

The Yucatán government’s Respeto a la Veda program provides financial support to fishermen who comply with seasonal bans. Authorities have pledged to intensify coastal and offshore patrols, particularly from Celestún to El Cuyo, in collaboration with the Navy and State Public Security Secretariat (SSP).

In a related operation in Celestún, officials confiscated a 26-foot boat lacking permits and carrying undersized fish. Another vessel was found with prohibited equipment, including an air compressor and tank.

Call for Public Vigilance

Officials urge citizens to report suspicious activities to safeguard marine ecosystems. The state’s “Maya Renaissance” government reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting illegal fishing and preserving ecological balance.