Undercover operation results in bust of major poaching ring at Trout River

Conservation officers with the Department of Natural Resources� Special Investigations Unit have infiltrated an extensive poaching operation based in the area of the community of Trout River.

A raid on several homes and a business in the community took place on August 26 involving several conservation officers with the Department of Natural Resources with assistance provided by fishery officers with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).

The action was taken after a 15-month undercover initiative, called �Operation Look Out�, was undertaken by the Department of Natural Resources with support from DFO. It is alleged that a number of individuals in the community were engaged in poaching and other illegal activity involving Atlantic salmon and big game.

Nine male residents and one female resident of Trout River are facing numerous charges, including trafficking in big game, trafficking in salmon, illegal possession of big game, illegal possession of salmon. They are also facing a variety of charges relating to offences under the Wildlife Act, The Newfoundland and Labrador Fisheries Regulations and the All Terrain Vehicle Act.

Premier Danny Williams praised the efforts of the province�s conservation officers who were integral in the development, coordination and execution of this lengthy undercover operation. He added, "This infiltration of yet another poaching operation clearly demonstrates that the dedicated effort of conservation officers with the Department of Natural Resources this summer is paying off.

"Poaching of inland fish and big game is a very serious problem facing our province. It is an obstacle to stock recovery and the optimization of economic and recreational benefits generated from inland fish and big game resources. As responsible stewards of our outdoor resources we must ensure the protection and conservation of this resource."

Several items were seized during this week�s operation. They include four trucks, two cars, two ATVs, one boat and motor, a rifle and ammunition, a deep freeze, scales and various other hunting equipment.

Officials with the Department of Natural Resources indicated the investigation into this poaching operation will continue and additional charges against more individuals are pending. It is anticipated formal charges will be laid in the coming weeks.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960 or (709) 690-5500

2004 08 27                                        3:45 p.m.