7 News Belize

Out of Season Lobster Fishers Prosecuted
posted (April 23, 2020)

Those men could face substantial fines - the kind which ere levelled off another finisher caught three weeks ago with out of season lobster.  4 fishers were caught with 2 large crocus sacks of out-of-season lobster also in the South Water Caye Marine Reserve. 

Gamboa says it resulted in a successful prosecution:

Hampton Gamboa - Conservation Compliance Unit Supervisor
"In that matter, that has concluded and one of the individuals pleaded guilty of the 4 that was charge, one of the individual pleaded guilty, so hence the reason why they were charged for possession during the close season which fortunately for us, the magistrate had levied a fine of 500 dollars which is the maximum fine he could be charged for the possession which is the fine and a penalty of 30 dollars for each one. So that did work out very well, in addition to that, the vessel was confiscated which we have in our possession. That in terms of the court decision was great and we have been encouraged to ensure that once we make these arrests, we confiscate everything and then let the court rule and so far the court has been doing a good job in that regard to assist us."

Belize consumes about 20% of conch harvested, and about 10 - 15 of its lobster; the rest is exported

Home | Archives | Downloads/Podcasts | Advertise | Contact Us

7 News Belize