The Federal Attorney General for Civil Protection (Profepa) carried out a rescue on the shores of San Felipe, in the Upper Gulf of California, which resulted in the release of 7 live totoabas from traffickers' nets. Unfortunately, another 72 totoabas were found dead in the same gillnets. Authorities managed to seize 23.5 kilograms of swim bladders belonging to the traffickers, while the Secretary of the Navy and Conapesca took charge of securing three of the five fishing nets found.
According to NOM 059, the totoaba is endangered, making its illegal capture related to the international trafficking of its swim bladder and represents a threat to the vaquita marina. In light of this situation, prosecutor Mariana Boy expressed her commitment to the protection of both species, promising to intensify patrols and surveillance in the area to combat the use of these illegal nets.
In this regard, it was emphasized that work will continue on the conservation and protection of the vaquita marina and the totoaba, strengthening surveillance, conservation, and cooperation actions with fishing communities. The main objective is to promote more sustainable economic alternatives to foster the development and well-being of these communities, always with a focus on preserving endangered species.
