Sharks, Lobsters, and Conch Found Entangled in Banned Gillnets

Despite being banned for years, illegal gillnets are still being found tangled in Belize’s protected waters. This time inside the Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve.

The Belize Fisheries Department reported that an intelligence-led operation alongside the Belize Coast Guard last Thursday uncovered five illegal gillnets near the lighthouse at Glover’s Reef. Three were found submerged and heavily entangled in coral patches.

“The nets contained conch shells, live lobsters, three dead sharks, and two live sharks,” the department said. “Immediate action was taken to mitigate further damage.”

Two additional gillnets were later handed over by fishermen who had found them drifting. All five were confiscated and taken to Middle Caye for disposal.

The discovery comes just days after similar illegal nets were found on Corona Reef during Reef Week.

Gillnets have been outlawed since 2020 under national regulations meant to protect marine life and sustain fisheries.

The Fisheries Department is urging the public to report illegal fishing as authorities race to contain a threat that continues to slip through the net.