Algarve's octopus fishermen have been victims of 'theft and destruction of gear and fish', acts of vandalism that have been concentrated mainly between Faro and Portimão and are alarming the association Armalgarve Polvo, which demands “urgent and effective” solutions.
The damage already amounts to "thousands of euros" and has led to many shipowners withdrawing the gear from the sea.
"Several octopus fishing vessels were victims of acts of vandalism, namely through the theft and destruction of fishing gear and their fish, which has serious consequences for companies and their families, who depend on the sustainability of this fishery," said the Armalgarve, in a press release.
The association says it has already alerted the authorities “in due course, but “there is still no solution in sight”. Taking into account this “lack of answers”, the association advises its members to cease their activity and apply for unemployment benefit “as an escape from all these situations and in order to obtain some income”.
“Armalgarve is concerned about the sustainability of this fishery and the hundreds of families that depend on it, and asks for urgent and effective solutions”, concluded the association.
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