18 Aklanons caught for ‘illegal fishing’ in Capiz

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Some 50 kilos of assorted fishes were seized after 18 persons from Aklan province were caught for alleged illegal fishing in the waters of Roxas City Saturday morning.

The Capiz Maritime Police were conducting seaborne patrol when they spotted the suspects.

Among those arrested were Mell Sandrew Miaral, 33, and Emilio Zita, 30, and the 7 crew members of Fishing Banca “Princess Dazell.”

Police also nabbed in Fishing Banca “Joshua Krinz” Alvin Pamati-an, 42, and Ryan Pamati-an, 32, with 7 other crew members, all from New Washington, Aklan.

The authorities recovered fishing paraphernalia that are now in the custody of Capiz Maritime Police Station.

Charges for violation of Section 86 (Unauthorized Fishing) of Republic Act No. 10654 will be filed against them for failure to present proper documents.

Meanwhile, four more persons were also caught for alleged illegal fishing in Sapian, Capiz Friday afternoon.

Police and the Sapian Fishery Law Enforcement Team identified the suspects as Eddie Escaber, 45; Joey Peralta, 35; Joel Peralta, 32; and Mario Genesis Blan, 31, all of Barangay Barra, Roxas City.

Their fishing boat and paraphernalia are in the custody of Sapian Municipal Agriculture’s Office.