Isla Mujeres Lobster Fishermen Lose 200 Traps in Offshore Thefts, Suffer $950,000 Pesos in Losses

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo — Lobster fishermen from five cooperatives on Isla Mujeres have lost at least 200 traps and 50 sections of lobster netting to offshore thefts during the current fishing season, with estimated losses reaching 950,000 pesos, cooperative leaders confirmed.

The most affected group is the “Patria y Progreso” cooperative, which lost 80 traps and 30 net sections from July 2025 to present. The “Justicia Social” cooperative reported 40 traps stolen, with the remaining losses distributed among the “Caribe,” “Isla Blanca,” and “Makax” organizations.

Each trap costs approximately 4,000 pesos and net sections 3,000 pesos, contributing to the substantial financial impact on a sector already struggling with low lobster prices. Export-quality live lobster currently fetches only 400 pesos per kilogram.

Raziel Rivero, president of “Patria y Progreso,” said thieves even take the lobster found inside the traps, compounding the economic damage. He suggested the thieves may operate with lookouts to ensure no one approaches during the thefts.

Baltazar Gómez Catzín, leader of “Justicia Social,” suspects port workers might be involved but acknowledged proving this is difficult due to what appears to be organized concealment of the crimes.

During the current extraction period from July 2025 to February, “Justicia Social” reported catching 20 tons of live lobster and 400 kilograms of lobster tails. The five cooperatives together estimate a total catch of approximately 80,000 kilograms.

Gómez Catzín explained that the full extent of losses from the thefts will only be determined precisely when all traps are retrieved from the water before February 28, in compliance with regulations from the National Commission of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Conapesca).

Last week saw improved production due to favorable weather conditions, following disruptions from northern winds since January. However, forecasts predict southern winds with gusts exceeding 40 kilometers per hour arriving Thursday, which will suspend fishing activities for the remainder of the week.

Fishermen expressed concern that this weather pattern could prevent an optimal end to the fishing season, as several projections indicate the southern winds may intensify next week.