In a statement, the PM announced that during the inspection operation in the Tagus River estuary, as part of the fight against the illegal harvesting of Japanese clams, “several irregularities were also detected, namely the lack of registration of vessels and engines, and fishing gear used in the illegal harvesting was also seized.”

The Maritime Police stressed that it remains “committed to combating this phenomenon,” which threatens the sustainability of natural resources and poses a risk to public health, resulting from the introduction into the market of products lacking sanitary controls and prohibited by law.

“The protection of the sea is a collective responsibility, and the Maritime Police will continue to ensure that the future of these resources is not compromised by illegal practices,” it added.

The operation involved a combination of naval and land resources, mobilising various operational capabilities of the Maritime Police.