Colombia intercepts boat carrying 1,764 pounds of marine animals

Colombian authorities have intercepted a fishing vessel carrying approximately 1,764 pounds of suspected illegally caught marine animals believed to have been taken from the protected Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, bringing renewed attention to illegal fishing in one of the country's most ecologically important marine reserves.The Colombian Navy, known as the Armada de Colombia, said the vessel was stopped during maritime control and security operations in the Colombian Pacific. Three Ecuadorian citizens who were aboard the boat were handed over to the Judicial Police as authorities began investigating the suspected illegal catch.According to the official statement by the Armada de Colombia, officials believe the marine animals originated from the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a protected area renowned for its rich marine biodiversity.