Guatemala steps up aquatic patrols to ensure responsible fishing along Pacific coast

Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación
Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación | Twitter

Aquatic patrols were conducted along the Guatemalan Pacific coast on October 22 and 23, as part of efforts to strengthen fishing control and surveillance. The operations were coordinated between the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) and the Pacific Naval Command's Navy (CONAPAC).

The supervision was carried out by staff from the Department of Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture (DISPESCA), under the Directorate of Agricultural Health (VISAR). Their aim was to verify compliance with national and international regulations related to responsible fishing, as well as to reinforce institutional presence in key areas.

The first patrol covered the route from the Pacific Naval Command to Las Lisas, while the second day extended from the command post to Champerico, expanding the inspection area.

A primary goal of these patrols was to check for proper use and functioning of Turtle Excluder Devices (DETs) on shrimp boats. These devices are essential for preventing accidental capture of protected species during fishing activities.

Inspections were also conducted on artisanal boats in Las Lisas, focusing on monitoring possible foreign vessels operating within Guatemalan waters.

"With these actions, MAGA reaffirms its commitment to conserving marine resources and promoting sustainable fishing for the benefit of coastal communities and the environment," according to a statement from MAGA.