Mexican Navy and Fisheries Officials Seize 320 Kilos of Illegal Catch in Puerto Juárez

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Mexican Navy personnel and federal fisheries inspectors seized 320 kilograms of fish and detained two small vessels during a joint maritime inspection in Puerto Juárez, authorities said.

The operation, carried out by the Mexican Navy (Semar) and the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (Conapesca), took place in federal waters off the coast of Cancún. Crew members were found fishing without the required official documentation or permits.

The confiscated catch included 300 kilograms of rubia, 17 kilograms of snapper, and 3 kilograms of grouper. Inspectors also seized various fishing gear used in the illegal operation.

The vessels, the catch, and the equipment were handed over to the competent authorities to determine responsibility.

Conapesca reminded that commercial or developmental fishing in federal waters requires prior permits, proof of legal standing, registration of the vessel and gear in the National Fishing Registry, and payment of the corresponding fees.

Authorities said similar inspection operations will continue along the coast of Quintana Roo to combat illegal fishing and protect marine resources.