French forces intensify efforts to combat illegal fishing near French Guiana, neutralizing Brazilian vessels and seizing significant marine resources.
In a determined effort to protect maritime resources, the French armed forces in French Guiana launched the Mokarran Operation against illegal fishing from June 5 to 16, 2024. During this period, five vessels originating from Brazil were caught engaging in unauthorized fishing activities within French territorial waters off the coast of French Guiana. Out of these, four were neutralized by the French forces. Three of the vessels were redirected to the port of Larivot in Cayenne for destruction, while a fourth had to be submerged at sea after capsizing during the inspection phase.
In this operation, authorities seized 7.5 tons of fish, 87 kg of swim bladders, and 28 km of fishing nets, with the financial loss estimated at over €220,000. The captains of the four vessels were detained and will face the French judiciary. Since the beginning of 2024, the French state has destroyed 10 illegal fishing vessels, underscoring its dedication to eradicating illicit activities within its jurisdiction.
