Boat illegally fishing bluefin tuna off Costa caught after social media live-streaming

Four crew members on a fishing boat have discovered that live streaming something you shouldn't be doing over social media can cost you dearly.

The Guardia Civil's environmental protection unit, Seprona, couldn't believe their eyes when they came across the live coverage of a vessel catching a bluefin tuna off the coast of Marbella on 6 August. At this time of year, there is a routine, but strictly enforced, ban in place on fishing tuna to allow their young to grow and stocks to be replenished.

The fishermen were reporting excitedly on the catch and viewers were writing comments back such as "nice one" and "congratulations" as they hauled the tuna on board.

Officers ordered a patrol boat out to apprehend the vessel's occupants, who promptly threw the pricey fish back into the Mediterranean when they saw officers. But it was too late.

The live video, plus evidence from the bait used that they had intended to fish for tuna, will land the men a large fine, officers said.