The United States Coast Guard intercepted four lanchas off the South Texas coast, resulting in the confiscation of large quantities of illegally caught fish and multiple sharks.
According to a press release, authorities discovered that 11 fishermen were engaging in illegal fishing activities north of the Maritime Boundary line on Thursday.
According to the release, the fishermen had their catch of approximately 1,595 pounds of red snapper and nine sharks seized by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The fishermen were apprehended and handed over to officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection for additional processing.
Lanchas have gained notoriety for their role in smuggling illegal drugs or fish along the U.S.-Mexico border. These boats, measuring between 20 and 30 feet in length, are designed with a sleek profile that enables them to reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
If you come across any suspicious activity offshore, make sure to report it immediately. You can contact “Operation Game Thief” at 1-800-792-GAME or get in touch with the U.S. Coast Guard at 361-939-0450.