Natural Resources
July 10, 2007
Major Poaching Ring Busted on Avalon
Peninsula
Charges are pending against a number of individuals
and businesses on the Avalon Peninsula for their involvement in a
commercial wildlife poaching operation.
Conservation officers led by the special
investigations section of the Department of Natural Resources, with
assistance from wildlife enforcement division of Environment Canada,
executed eight search warrants on Sunday, July 8, in connection with an
undercover investigation. The investigation focused on a poaching ring
operating in the St. John�s, Mount Pearl, Petty Harbour and Ferryland
areas.
The agencies began the joint effort in September 2006
to address the illegal commercialization of big game and migratory
birds.
The search warrants were executed on a number of
residences and businesses during the take-down operation. Members of the
RNC and RCMP also provided assistance with the operation. As a result of
the investigation, officers seized six vehicles, three firearms, hunting
equipment, a large quantity of moose meat and migratory birds.
"This operation shows that our significant investment
in conservation enforcement is making a positive difference," said the
Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources. "We are
protecting our wildlife and natural resources for our people today and
for generations to come. Poaching is greedy, selfish behaviour that can
threaten the future of our wild animal populations."
The pending charges are for offences under the
Wildlife Act and Migratory Birds Convention Act. Penalties
for big game offences can include fines from $1,000 to $5,000 and/or up
to six months imprisonment, loss of hunting privileges for up to five
years and forfeiture of seized articles. Penalties under the
Migratory Birds Convention Act can include fines up to $1 million
and/or three years imprisonment.
The investigation is continuing with the cooperation
and support of all agencies involved.
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Media contact:
Corey Snook
Communications & Marketing Manager
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5777, 728-2837
2007 07 10
1:55 p.m.
