Feb 15 • 16:15 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

PRF captures illegal lobster cargo during closed season and arrests driver in RN

The Federal Highway Police in Brazil seized an illegal lobster shipment during a closure period, arresting the driver transporting it.

The Federal Highway Police (PRF) recently made a significant seizure of illegal lobsters during a routine inspection on BR-101 in Rio Grande do Norte. The incident occurred on Sunday when authorities discovered a cargo containing approximately 40 kg of lobsters in a Saveiro vehicle. This seizure is particularly noteworthy as the lobsters are currently within a closed fishing season, which prohibits both fishing and commercial sale of the species.

The PRF reported that the seized lobsters belonged to the Cape Verde lobster species, with several individuals in the shipment identified as carrying eggs. This details further complicate the case, as transporting lobsters with eggs heightens the environmental violation associated with this illegal catch. The driver of the vehicle confessed to purchasing the lobsters in Baía Formosa and intended to sell them in Pipa, a nearby tourist destination.

This incident highlights ongoing challenges related to environmental protection and the enforcement of fishing regulations in Brazil. The PRF's actions emphasize the importance of protecting marine biodiversity, especially during critical spawning periods. Curbing illegal fishing practices not only supports conservation efforts but also sustains local fisheries reliant on these resources. As authorities continue to monitor these activities, the case serves as a reminder of the need for stringent adherence to environmental laws to ensure the sustainability of marine life in the region.

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