Poaching off the coast: More than 100 illegal octopus traps seized in Pilar de la Horadada

Guardia Civil officers seized over 100 illegal octopus fishing gear in the coastal area of ​​the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada. The operation was part of routine monitoring of fishing regulations and the protection of marine ecosystems.

According to official information, the discovered gear did not comply with current legislation: it was installed without permission, lacked mandatory identification, and posed a threat to the sustainability of marine life. Such devices, used outside established timeframes and regulations, can lead to uncontrolled catches, including juveniles and non-target species.

The seizure of the illegal devices was the result of patrolling coastal waters and monitoring areas where fishing violations had previously been recorded. All discovered gear was recovered from the sea and disposed of in accordance with established procedures. No injuries were reported during the operation, and information on possible administrative sanctions against those involved is being clarified. The Guardia Civil emphasizes that illegal octopus fishing directly harms both the marine environment and legal fishermen who adhere to quotas, seasonal restrictions, and fishing gear requirements. Control activities in coastal municipalities in the province of Alicante will continue, particularly during periods of increased poaching risk.

The authorities reiterate that preserving marine resources is a shared responsibility, and that compliance with fishing regulations is directly linked to the long-term sustainability of the coastal economy and the region's traditional fisheries.