£60 fine for poaching now here near enough
Published Date:
17 September 2008
By Ken Wade
TWO migrant workers caught netting fish from a fen river and barbecuing them on the bank in the close season have been ordered to forfeit boats and equipment worth thousands of pounds in a landmark court ruling.
They were also fined £60, hardly a deterrent as these were no ordinary poachers.
I had a quick look on the internet and found it so easy to buy all the right equipment for poaching fish. I could have bought gill nets for just £70!
After the hearing Neil Sampson, national fisheries enforcement officer for the Environment Agency, said: "Although we were disappointed that these men were not given a more severe sentence, the forfeiture of their boats will leave a large hole in both their pockets.
"The result sends out a clear message that illegal fishing practices will not be tolerated. The Environment Agency will take strong action to ensure offenders are brought to face justice.
"It also highlights the importance of vigilance from the public and how by working together with the Norfolk Constabulary, we were able to bring this case to court.
The really worrying part of all this is that the group came down from Scotland to poach our waters, not just for a few fish either. They had intentions of stealing a large quantity of fish from fen drains and rivers.
"I wonder how many others have done it or are planning to do it. With only a £60 fine it could well be worth the risk.
"A £1,000 fine and confiscation of their equipment might just stop a few from trying it though."
The full article contains 275 words and appears in Peterborough ET newspaper.
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Last Updated:
17 September 2008 1:11 PM
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Source:
Peterborough ET
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Location:
Peterborough
