Panama’s Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP) removed and confiscated an illegal drift gillnet from the Gulf of Chiriquí last week. The operation followed an anonymous tip about the abandoned fishing gear posing a threat to marine life.
Personnel from ARAP’s Chiriquí Regional Directorate located and extracted the net from open waters on Friday, January 23. They conducted the mission with support from Panama’s National Aeronaval Service (SENAN). Officials immediately took custody of the net, citing its danger to responsible fishing practices and sensitive ocean ecosystems.
Enforcement of Fishing Regulations
The Aquatic Resources Authority of Panama (ARAP) emphasized that leaving fishing gear adrift is explicitly prohibited. Current regulations stem from Administrative Resolution No. 086, enacted on August 12, 2011. This rule mandates that all vessels must keep their fishing equipment attached while operating at sea. It also authorizes the confiscation of any abandoned gear discovered by authorities.
“This type of net, besides being illegal, affects marine fauna and harms fishermen who follow the rules by causing indiscriminate catches and damage to the marine environment,” ARAP stated. [Translated from Spanish]
The agency confirmed it maintains open dialogue channels with all fishing sectors. These include industrial, semi-industrial, artisanal, and sport fishing groups. Despite this outreach, officials reiterated their commitment to continuing surveillance and enforcement operations across Panama’s waters.
ARAP often collaborates with the Servicio Nacional Aeronaval for maritime enforcement actions. The recent seizure highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. A single abandoned drift gillnet can continue trapping and killing fish, sea turtles, and marine mammals for years, a process known as ghost fishing.
Authorities are now investigating the origin of the confiscated net. They urge the public to report any sightings of abandoned fishing gear or illegal fishing activities directly to ARAP regional offices.