About
C4ADS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to data-driven analysis and evidence-based
reporting of conflict and security issues worldwide. Powered by their data and technology
capabilities, C4ADS produces compelling analysis to target illicit networks that operate
across borders to destabilize communities, prevent development, and devastate the
environment. One of their reports released in 2025 exposes the support networks enabling
illicit distant-water squid fishing operations, an industry marked by human rights abuses
and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Challenge
C4ADS collected publicly available corporate, vessel ownership, government reported
transparency records, and port data.
- C4ADS found that two related vessels provided 42% of at-sea refueling, or “bunkering,” to distant-water squid fleets, allowing them to stay longer at sea and evade port authorities. Both vessels were tied to networks previously investigated by the UN Security Council for DPRK sanctions evasion and one of which was sanctioned by Panamanian authorities for IUU related activities.
- C4ADS found that Agental Peru S.A.C., a port agent previously penalized for regulatory violations, represented 59% (41 of 70) of distant water squid vessels in documented cases involving the disembarkation of sick, injured, or deceased crew members, more than any other port agent in Peru during the study period.
Impact
This report reveals a web of actors enabling the obfuscation of persistent human rights and
IUU fishing abuses in the distant-water squid fleet. While these actors provide necessary
services to legal operations, some can also help illicit activities remain undetected. The
report oRers actionable policy recommendations for stakeholders to increase
accountability through stronger regulatory mechanisms, including beneficial ownership
disclosure, due diligence on vessel risk profiles, sanctions on enabling entities, and
restrictions on illicit operations moving between jurisdictions.
To read the full report click here.
