The Mossos d’Esquadra and Rural Agents increased nighttime surveillance along the protected coastline of the Medes Islands to prevent poaching in the area.
The Medes Islands are located 142 km from Barcelona (approximate travel time is 1h 52 minutes).
The authorities initiated the investigation in order to determine whether longline poaching has been taking place on these islands of maximum environmental protection.
The longline is an artisanal fishing device consisting of a long, thick string from which branches with hooks at the ends are hung.
The fact that groups of divers from diving centers had found a longline while practicing their sporting activities was the trigger for the investigation.
At that time, the divers managed to release several large moray eels and groupers from the dangling hooks.
While some of these specimens were still alive, others had already died.
They were also able to dismantle about 200 meters of thick longline lines and about 50 hooks.
Investigations underway in Medes Islands to prevent poaching
The Rural Agents inspected the area and were able to identify several people who carried out these unauthorized practices.
Nighttime maritime surveillance activities have also been intensified along the Catalan coast near Barcelona.
It should be noted that in June 2010 the Medes Islands archipelago was declared a PNNP (National Protected Natural Park), due to the great diversity of marine fauna and flora.
Among the most outstanding species are the common stingray and the red coral.
