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Ecuadorian Navy Rescues Fisherman Bitten by Shark Near Galápagos

From El Comercio · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • The Ecuadorian Navy conducted a search and rescue operation for a fisherman bitten by a shark approximately 400 nautical miles from the Galápagos Islands.
  • The fisherman received initial first aid aboard his vessel before being transferred to the Isla Isabela coast guard vessel for medical attention.
  • He was subsequently taken to a local health center on San Cristóbal Island for specialized care after reporting the shark attack during his fishing activity.

A fisherman in the Galápagos Islands is recovering after a harrowing encounter with a shark at sea. The Ecuadorian Navy launched a swift search and rescue operation when an emergency alert was received regarding the fisherman, who was attacked while working approximately 400 nautical miles from the archipelago.

The incident occurred while the fisherman was engaged in his daily work. He managed to report the attack, stating a shark had bitten his arm. Initial medical assistance was provided to him aboard his fishing vessel. To ensure he received further care, the Navy deployed the Isla Isabela coast guard vessel, which traveled the considerable distance to reach him.

Medical personnel from the Ministry of Public Health were on board the Isla Isabela. They provided priority attention to the injured fisherman during the journey back. Upon arrival at San Cristóbal Island, the man was disembarked and immediately transported to a local health facility for specialized medical treatment.

The ECU 911 emergency system coordinated the response, working closely with the Ecuadorian Armed Forces and the Ministry of Health. This collaboration ensured a rapid and effective reaction to the critical situation, highlighting the importance of efficient protocols for maritime safety.

The fisherman was bitten on one of his arms, according to the photograph provided by the Ecuadorian Navy.

— ReportDetails the injury sustained by the fisherman.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.