On Saturday, the Environmental Military Police in Brazil conducted a successful operation in the Western São Paulo area, seizing 2.2 kilometers of illegal fishing nets. The operation took place at the Sérgio Motta Hydroelectric Power Plant reservoir in Presidente Epitácio and along the Paraná River in Panorama. Officers discovered a significant amount of illegal nets, totaling 1,500 meters in Presidente Epitácio, where they also rescued several fish species trapped in the nets, including Curimba, Tucunaré, Piranha, Cascudo, and Piauçu, ensuring their safe return to the water.

In detail, the police found that the illegal nets posed a serious threat to local fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. The action not only aimed to conserve these species but also to enforce fishing regulations in the area. In Panorama, they encountered 14 fishing nets, each measuring 50 meters, which contributed an additional 700 meters of seized material. This discovery highlighted ongoing challenges in protecting marine life from illegal fishing practices.

The seized nets have been taken to the respective police headquarters in Presidente Prudente and Dracena for further processing. This operation underscores the commitment of the Environmental Police to combat illegal fishing and protect biodiversity in Brazil, particularly as it relates to water bodies that are crucial for both ecological balance and local livelihoods.