Eagle Ray Incident in Puerto Aventuras Sparks Environmental Outrage—and Clarification

Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo — Photos and a video showing tourists attempting to catch an eagle ray in the Puerto Aventuras marina has triggered public outrage and renewed calls for stronger environmental enforcement in Quintana Roo. However, authorities have since clarified that the incident was a misunderstanding involving a child playing near the water with their family, and the protected marine animal was released unharmed.

The footage, which went viral on social media, appeared to show individuals using fishing rods to pull an eagle ray—a species protected under Mexican law (NOM-029-PESC-2006)—from the water as onlookers watched from nearby boats. The video led many to believe that an illegal fishing act was taking place, prompting immediate concerns from environmental advocates and local residents.

Authorities Respond and Clarify

Samantha Álvarez Hernández, head of the Secretary of the Environment in Playa del Carmen, confirmed that inspectors were dispatched immediately upon seeing the video. After speaking with the administrator of the marina and eyewitnesses, the agency determined that the incident was not a case of illegal fishing but rather a minor event involving a child, and that the eagle ray was safely released.

“There was no intention of harming the animal or engaging in illegal fishing,” said Álvarez. “Nonetheless, we took the matter seriously and responded right away.”

As a preventive measure, the municipal government is now planning to install clear signage around the Puerto Aventuras marina to explicitly state that fishing—especially of protected species like rays—is strictly prohibited in the area.

Larger Concerns Over Marine Protection

Despite this specific case being resolved without harm, the video has reignited frustration among citizens over gaps in enforcement and public awareness. Several recent cases of illegal fishing and wildlife violations by tourists and locals alike have gone unpunished across Quintana Roo:

• In July 2024, a boat in Holbox was seized for carrying illegally caught protected species.
• In September 2023, multiple people were arrested across the state for illegal fishing during a series of enforcement operations.
• The Mexican Navy has increased nighttime patrols to prevent poaching near Isla Contoy.
• Unauthorized sea cucumber harvesting in Isla Mujeres continues to threaten delicate marine ecosystems.

Álvarez emphasized that her department is working with the Mexican Navy and environmental agencies like PROFEPA to develop preventive strategies and strengthen surveillance throughout the Riviera Maya.

Protecting Puerto Aventuras’ Marine Life

Local residents, particularly in Puerto Aventuras, have expressed relief that the incident was minor but insist that the growing popularity of the marina as a tourist destination demands clearer rules and stronger enforcement.

“Environmental protection doesn’t start only when something goes wrong,” said one resident. “We need awareness and prevention, not just reaction.”

As Quintana Roo continues to attract tourists from around the world, officials and citizens alike are calling for a culture of environmental respect—one that safeguards marine life and the ecosystems that make this region so extraordinary.