Two People Apprehended By Police For Spearfishing While Diving

Two illegal spearfishers were apprehended by police this week following a coordinated operation involving the Rangers, Environmental Protection Unit, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, and the Armed Forces of Malta.

The duo, known for their well-planned and elusive operations throughout the year, were caught on camera by Rangers nearly 900 metres off Marsaskala during rough sea conditions.

After an extensive coastal search, Rangers obtained clear footage showing the men using scuba gear in combination with spearguns, an illegal practice under Maltese fisheries regulations.

Upon verifying the evidence, Rangers immediately alerted nearby EPU officers. The spearfishers carried out several deep dives, alternating turns, each lasting close to an hour. When they returned to shore, police officers intercepted them, preventing their escape.

The offenders admitted to discarding their spearguns at sea, but video footage captured by the Rangers earlier secured the case for prosecution.

Officers from the Department of Fisheries later confiscated all diving equipment, and the pair now face substantial fines for their illegal actions.

The Rangers expressed gratitude to the EPU officers and all those involved, emphasising that such results are only possible through collaboration and public support.

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