In the early hours of September 14, 2026, the National Maritime Authority (AMN) seized approximately 2,011 kilograms of dried bonito fish aboard the artisanal fishing vessel Bela Aurora in Caniçal. The vessel was prevented from docking and escorted to Funchal Port, where the catch was confiscated. The crew were detained on board until the following morning.
For the Caniçal community, dried fish is a traditional practice linked to the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Piedade, intended for family consumption and the preparation of community sandwiches. Fishermen argue it is for self-consumption and has always been part of Madeiran fishing culture.
The incident prompted political reactions, with the PS-Madeira advocating for legal exceptions for cultural practices, CDS-PP Machico urging authorities for common sense, and Chega-Machico expressing solidarity with the fishermen. Questions have arisen regarding the proportionality of the vessel and crew's detention, transparency in the seizure, respect for traditions, and official communication. Current legislation lacks clear exceptions for such traditional practices.
