A Breton trawler was caught fishing in a prohibited zone off the coast of Brittany. Inspected by the Maritime Affairs authorities, the vessel’s cargo was confiscated. Legal proceedings have now been initiated.
This trip to sea could prove costly for this Breton fishing boat captain.
Spotted in an area where fishing is prohibited
On June 2nd, a trawler was inspected while bottom trawling in a regulated area near the Breton coastline.
The infraction was detected by the National Fisheries Monitoring Center (CNSP), based at the CROSS Atlantic maritime rescue coordination center in Étel, Morbihan. According to information reported by Actu Morbihan, agents observed fishing activity within the three-mile zone, an area where this practice is strictly regulated.
A patrolman intervenes quickly
Once the offence is spotted, a Maritime Affairs patrol boat present in the area is immediately mobilized.
« We detected a fishing operation with a bottom trawl in this prohibited area. We had a Maritime Affairs patrol boat nearby. The patrol boat issued a citation and stopped the fishing, » explains Célia D’Hervé, head of the National Fisheries Monitoring Centre, quoted by Actu Morbihan .
The officers then proceed to inspect the vessel and issue a report against the fisherman.
270 kilos of fish confiscated
The penalty does not stop at the fine. The entire catch made during this fishing operation is confiscated.
According to Célia D’Hervé, quoted by Actu Morbihan, nearly 270 kilos of fish were found in the trawl net at the time of the inspection. Among the species caught were rays, gurnard, and sea bass.
A significant financial loss for the crew, which could soon be compounded by further sanctions.
Legal proceedings are being prepared.
The matter is not expected to end with this simple maritime inspection. Maritime authorities have announced that administrative fines are being considered and that legal action is also planned.
Each year, the National Fisheries Monitoring Centre coordinates several thousand checks at sea and during landings in order to combat illegal practices and preserve fishery resources.
This new fine serves as a reminder that coastal areas are under close surveillance and that violations of fishing rules can lead to heavy penalties, both financial and legal.
source : le petit bleu
