Eight arrested for illegal fishing in Panay

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Six fishing crew members were arrested Tuesday afternoon, May 26, for alleged illegal fishing in the seawaters of Panay town.

Authorities identified four of the suspects as alias “Francis,” 38, boat captain; alias “Robert,” 24; alias “Rogen,” 34; and alias “Jessie,” 38, all residents of Barangay Natividad, Pilar, Capiz.

Recovered from the suspects were one fishing boat worth PHP 250,000; one diesel engine worth PHP 20,000; a complete set of fishing paraphernalia worth PHP 180,000; and about 10 kilos of assorted fish worth PHP 2,000.

Two more people were arrested for the same offense in Panay town.

The suspects were identified as alias “Oliver,” 34, and alias “James,” 29, both residents of the area.

Recovered from them were one fishing boat worth PHP 80,000, one 12-horsepower diesel engine worth PHP 30,000, and one complete set of fishing paraphernalia worth PHP 20,000.

The eight suspects, along with the confiscated items, are under the custody of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources offices of Panay and Pilar for proper disposition.

Charges for violating Municipal Ordinance No. 03-02, or the Municipal Fishery Code, Series of 2003, will be filed against them.