Civil Guard Seizes 22kg of Illegally Caught Seafood in Tenerife Crackdown
Spanish Civil Guard officers seized 22 kilograms of illegally caught seafood and filed multiple charges against three individuals caught poaching in restricted waters off the coast of Candelaria, Tenerife.
Tenerife’s marine ecosystems are under renewed pressure following a recent crackdown on poaching in Candelaria. The Civil Guard seized 22 kilograms of illegally caught seafood, highlighting a persistent issue that threatens local biodiversity and undermines law-abiding professional fishers.
During a coastal patrol, officers caught three individuals fishing in restricted areas. The group lacked the necessary licenses and used unauthorized equipment. Their actions not only violated environmental laws but also put their own safety at risk in the water.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of 12 fish and 11 cephalopods, which were handled according to official protocols. The offenders now face up to nine separate charges under the Canary Islands Fisheries Law. The case has been passed to the regional Ministry of Fisheries, where the individuals could face significant fines due to the number of violations.
Regular surveillance is vital for protecting marine areas, which are designed to help fish populations recover from overfishing. Combating illegal activity is essential not only for environmental health but also for supporting the long-term sustainability of the islands' fishing industry, which remains a key part of the local economy when practiced legally.