Seizure of Akivades Worth 2 Million TL: Latest News from Turkey
Illegal Aquivade smuggling operation foiled by Turkish Coast Guard
On April 29, 2023, Turkish Coast Guard West Marmara Group Command and Çanakkale Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, in a joint operation, foiled an illegal smuggling operation of aquivades (sand mussels) near Izmir. As per reports, the aquivades were brought to Çanakkale by land and then smuggled to Greece via a fishing boat.
During the operation, the Coast Guard teams seized 108 sacks of akivades weighing approximately 1,500 kilograms and valued at around 2 million TL. The smuggling attempt was carried out by seven people, who were eventually caught by the authorities. The illegally harvested aquivades were taken during the loading of the land vehicle to the fishing boat. The fish were returned to the sea alive and healthy, while the smugglers were fined a total of 116 thousand TL.
The Coast Guard West Marmara Group Command has made it clear that it will continue to crack down on any illegal activity that threatens the ecosystem of the blue homeland for future generations. The operation demonstrates the government’s commitment to preserving the environment, as well as their determination to thwart any attempts at smuggling of endangered marine species.
This incident highlights the importance of responsible fishing and sustainable harvesting of seafood. The smuggling of aquivades can cause irreparable damage to the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of local fishing communities. The authorities must maintain strict vigilance and ensure that such unlawful activities are nipped in the bud.
We should all take responsibility in protecting our natural resources from degradation and illegal activities and work to preserve and sustain our fragile ecosystems for future generations.
