Kingston men to face fisheries charges
Wednesday 19 March, 2008
Two men from Kingston, on the state’s Limestone Coast, are expected to face a range of fisheries related charges following a targeted operation involving PIRSA Fisheries and SAPOL officers last week.
It will be alleged that the two men aged 69 and 67 used nine rock lobster pots every day over a six day period as well as using rock lobster pots not registered in their names. The maximum number of registered pots that can be used by an individual is two.
Search warrants were executed at two premises at Kingston where Fisheries Officers seized approximately 60 rock lobsters (both whole and shelled meat) with a total weight of approximately 90 kilograms.
Officers also seized two vessels, chest freezers, cooking equipment and a number of lobster pots.
PIRSA Fisheries Manager Compliance Services, Mr Paul Tatarelli said Fisheries Officer would continue to target illegal activity in the rock lobster fishery.
“The State’s rock lobster stocks are valuable and illegal activity has the potential to damage their long term sustainability,” Mr Tatarelli said.
“The message to those considering breaking the law is clear.
“We will do everything in our power to catch and subsequently prosecute those who choose to ignore the rules.”
Under the Fisheries Management Act 2007, penalties for a first offence of this nature can include a fine of $10,000 and an additional penalty of five times the wholesale value of the fish up to a maximum of $100,000.
