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It was a busy day for the Guardia Civil in Tarifa, Cádiz, after officers intercepted a van loaded with an astonishing 21 bluefin tuna, tipping the scales at more than 750kg. The fish, prized for their flavour and high market value, had just been caught illegally in the Strait of Gibraltar despite a temporary ban on bluefin tuna fishing in the region.

 

The van was stopped as it left Tarifa port, part of intensified patrols established by the Guardia Civil. “We have increased surveillance of recreational fishing in the Strait in recent weeks,” said a spokesperson. “Our aim is to detect any illegal activity related to bluefin tuna, a species that has become highly coveted by restaurants and fishmongers.”

 

The increase in police checks is a result of a recent Resolution from the General Directorate of Fisheries Management and Agriculture that temporarily prohibits the capture of Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus). With the ban in place, officers are stepping up coastal operations throughout Andalucía, keeping a close eye on activities that might threaten this vulnerable species.

 

The demand is clear: bluefin tuna fetch a premium and their esteemed gastronomic reputation has made them a frequent target for illegal fishing. “In all detected cases, reports are drawn up and the fish are seized,” confirmed the Guardia Civil. For this particular haul, the 21 confiscated tuna were handed over to the local Food Bank, ensuring they didn’t go to waste.

 

As the importance of protecting bluefin tuna continues to grow, so too does the vigilance of authorities along Andalucía’s coast. For now, the message remains firm: the fishing ban is in place and the Guardia Civil is on the lookout to safeguard both the region’s marine life and the law.

 

 

Image: Guardia Civil