The Civil Guard in Lanzarote opened an investigation into two men, ages 60 and 28, who were caught in the act with 90 kilograms of sea bass while illegally occupying a fish farm at Playa Quemada on August 29. The operation began after the farm’s caretaker reported a suspicious vehicle nearby, prompting authorities to move in. A formal complaint from the company owner was filed on the same day, noting a prior pattern of similar incidents earlier in the month.
In response, the Civil Guard deployed a location device to track the suspected vehicle, following clear instructions from the responding officers. The officers were able to verify the circumstances and intercept the wandering SUV as it departed Playa Quemada. The vehicle was stopped and the two occupants were identified. It was also confirmed that the driver did not hold a valid driver’s license.
The search of the car uncovered a range of items tied to illegal fishing activities. Among the finds were a trammel net, an inflating pump, flashlights, a small inflatable craft with two oars, an outboard motor, and several boats containing roughly 90 pounds of perch. The seized material appeared to contravene hygiene and sanitary regulations relevant to seafood handling.
Authorities began the process of inspecting some of the perch on site, noting residual bait and evidence suggesting feeding had been overseen by the company that owns the facility.
The 90 kilograms of fish that were seized were earmarked for destruction after concerns about improper transfer and storage conditions were raised, as well as the need to ensure compliance with sanitary standards.
Ultimately, investigators questioned the two individuals in the vehicle as suspects in a theft crime. The driver was also investigated for traffic safety violations due to the absence of the necessary permit. [citation: Civil Guard press release details the charges and actions taken]