Eel smuggling has been dealt a significant blow as European police, in collaboration with international partners, have dismantled a major trafficking ring.
On June 29, Europol, the European Union's Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation, announced the successful operation, codenamed "Operation LAKE," which spanned from October 2022 to June 2023.
The illegal eel trade, particularly the trafficking of glass eels or elvers, has long been a contentious issue. These small, snake-like fish are highly sought after in certain countries due to their appearance and meat. However, concerns have arisen regarding the ecological damage and animal cruelty associated with the trade.
Typically, glass eel trafficking involves capturing young fish during their migration from freshwater to the ocean, a process that causes significant stress and potential harm. Transporting them over long distances, often in cramped conditions, further exacerbates the risks to their health and well-being.
To combat this illicit trade, many countries have implemented regulations and restrictions aimed at protecting eel populations and promoting more humane practices. Europol's recent operation signifies a major step in addressing this issue and curbing the illegal trafficking of protected species.
Europol highlighted that more than 250 individuals involved in the illegal trade were arrested during Operation LAKE. The criminal network targeted by the operation was responsible for trafficking 25 tonnes of live glass eels, with an estimated value of €13mn. Additionally, authorities intercepted eight tonnes of baby eels en route to Asia, where they would have been raised in fish farms and sold.
Europol emphasized the significance of combating the illicit eel trade, labeling it as "one of the most devastating crimes against wildlife worldwide." The European eel population (Anguilla anguilla) has suffered a staggering decline of 90% in recent years. The agency believes that persistent law enforcement efforts may have played a role in preventing the complete extinction of the species.
Since Operation LAKE's inception in 2015, incidents involving eel trafficking have decreased by 50%, as per Europol's estimation. The illicit trade is predominantly orchestrated by several criminal networks, with European nationals involved in the illegal fishing of young eels in European waters, while individuals from Asian destination countries handle logistics and transportation.
Among the 256 arrested individuals were nationals from China, Malaysia, France, Spain, and Portugal. Europol highlighted the apprehension of "two high-value targets" during the operation. These successful outcomes have significantly disrupted the organized criminal networks engaged in this multi-billion euro illicit activity.
Europol underlined the vast profits associated with the trafficking of glass eels, estimating illegal earnings of up to €3bn during peak years. By dismantling major smuggling operations and apprehending those involved, law enforcement agencies hope to send a strong message and further deter future criminal activity in this trade.
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