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Fishermen File Federal Complaint After Navy Inspection Gunfire in Oaxaca

The complaint moves to federal prosecutors, raising scrutiny of Navy patrol tactics.

Overview

  • Two local leaders, Camilo Mendoza Sánchez and Ricardo Blas, filed a complaint with the federal prosecutor in Bahías de Huatulco accusing Navy personnel of firing at their small fishing boat.
  • The fishermen say they were working within the rules when intercepted and describe the gunfire as unjustified aggression that damaged their boat and livelihood.
  • Semar says the stop was a maritime inspection for suspected illegal gear and reports that a warning shot aimed skyward struck the motor because of bad weather as the crew tried to flee.
  • According to Semar, inspectors found a compressor, hoses, and protected species on board, gear often used for restricted dive fishing that draws stricter enforcement.
  • The Navy released video showing orders to halt and says more fishing boats closed in, prompting a withdrawal, while prosecutors have announced no arrests or charges as the case remains under review.