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Abalone poachers caught in the act

Tuesday 16 February 2010

A joint PIRSA Fisheries and SA Police (SAPOL) operation has netted an illegal abalone operation at Cape Donnington, south of Port Lincoln.

Fisheries and SAPOL Officers working together onboard PIRSA Fisheries’ Offshore Patrol Vessel Southern Ranger caught five men allegedly involved in the illegal taking and possession of more than 450 abalone.

The bust comes after officers on board the Southern Ranger spotted divers in the water in the Lincoln National Park. Upon investigation, the men were allegedly found to be in possession of more than 200 live abalone.

After interviewing the divers, officers searched a house in Port Lincoln where they located another 250 abalone of which half were allegedly under the legal size limit. 

It will be alleged that the abalone seized were taken by the men for commercial purposes.

Police officers also located and seized a large quantity of drugs in the house which they are currently investigating.

Master Offshore Patrol onboard the Southern Ranger, Les Parsons, said that this case shows the diversity of PIRSA Fisheries in being able to deploy both land and sea-based officers to provide a statewide presence in detecting fishing offences. 

“The Southern Ranger provides our officers with the ability to cover areas which may be isolated or have limited and rugged land access,” he said.

“Working closely with SAPOL also enables us to share our resources and provide very effective coverage.

“Abalone is a valuable species and is particularly sought after at this time of the year, so our officers will be paying particular attention to known abalone fishing areas to ensure people are following the rules. 

“Unlicensed poachers who take large numbers of abalone from the water with the intention of selling them illegally put the industry at considerable risk, which is why we put a significant amount of effort into reducing this type of offending.”

The penalties for taking and/or possessing abalone for a commercial purpose include fines of up to $250,000 or up to four years imprisonment.

Investigations are continuing, with the offenders expected to be summoned to appear in Court at a later date

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.