Belize Fisheries Department Intercepts and Seizes Suspected Illegally Imported Jumbo Shrimp and Other Seafood

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE PRESS RELEASE: During an early morning fisheries enforcement operation on Thursday, September 3, 2026, Fisheries Officers, with assistance from the Belize Police Department, intercepted a pickup truck along the Hattieville-Boom Road following a brief pursuit. A subsequent inspection of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of seafood suspected to have been illegally imported into Belize, including:

• 290 lbs. of tilapia fillets;
• 335 lbs. of jumbo shrimp; and
• 14 octopus.

The vehicle and seafood products were seized and secured by the Belize Fisheries Department. Two adult males were detained and subsequently charged with offences relating to the alleged illegal importation of fisheries products. They are expected to appear before the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Friday, September 4, 2026.

The public is reminded that the importation of fish and fisheries products into Belize requires the appropriate permits and must comply fully with applicable laws and regulations. Unauthorized or unregulated importation of fisheries products is prohibited. Such activities can pose food safety and phytosanitary risks. Illegal importation also undermines legitimate local businesses and persons who comply with the established regulatory requirements. The Fisheries Department therefore urges all importers, traders, and members of the public to ensure that all fisheries products entering Belize are properly authorized and meet the applicable regulatory and health requirements.

The Department further reminds members of the public that suspected illegal fishing activities and other violations of fisheries laws should be reported to the Fisheries Department. Information provided by members of the public plays an important role in supporting enforcement efforts and protecting Belize’s fisheries resources. Compliance with fisheries laws is a shared responsibility, and safeguarding Belize’s fisheries resources requires the collective efforts of the Department and the public. Illegal activities can undermine the sustainability of our fisheries and negatively affect the livelihoods of communities and fishers who depend on these resources.

The Belize Fisheries Department continues to work closely with national enforcement agencies to combat illegal fishing and the unauthorized importation and trade of fisheries products. The Department thanks the Belize Police Department for its assistance during this operation.

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