A delegation of the Venezuelan National Fishery and Aquaculture Institute (INAPESCA), supported by Venezuelan National Guard, succeeded in preventing a five-ton shipment of tuna from being processed and commercialized in the Venezuelan market.
The tuna was detected in the vessel White Father sailing in international waters. The vessel was seized and towed by officers of the National Guart to a port in the Town of
Local authorities inform that another 10 tons of decomposed tuna have already been placed in the market for commercialization, according to the organ regional representative, Mr. Victor Alvizu, who also indicated that an inspection plan has been ordered for all fish selling establishments to try to find that batch of decomposed tuna.
Meanwhile, INAPESCA authorities launched an administrative procedure against the people responsible of commercializing the fish that has gone off. The executives have not only failed to provide explanations about the origin of the product, but also have committed offences categorized under the Fishing and Aquaculture Law.
The amount of the fine for commercializing the tuna is still to be determined, however preliminary estimates indicate the fine could be set around VEB 7 million (USD 3,256).