Justice and Public Safety
July 8, 2015

Alleged Salmon Poaching Incident Leads to Charges

On July 3, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers from the Gander and Grand Falls-Windsor detachments apprehended and charged two adult males for illegally netting salmon in inland waters.

While on foot patrol early in the morning along the shore of Gander Lake near the mouth of the Southwest River, officers observed two individuals setting what appeared to be a net. After calling for assistance, the officers stayed in the area to observe and at approximately 5:30 a.m., watched the two suspects in a canoe retrieve the net. One of the individuals was wearing a black ski mask concealing his face. When officers attempted to arrest the individuals, a foot chase ensued with both suspects ultimately being apprehended and arrested. They are facing a number of charges for violations of the Federal Fishery Act and further investigation is ongoing in relation to possible charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. Both men are expected to appear in Provincial Court in Gander at a later date.

Seized as a result of this incident were a canoe, a net, 11 Atlantic salmon, a black ski mask, and a black duffle bag.

Both of the suspects in this case were already known to officers with Fish and Wildlife Enforcement.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to protecting the province's resources and to ensuring that they remain available for those who respect legislation concerning the proper management and conservation of fish and game. The public can play a significant role in assisting officers in protecting the province's natural resources by reporting any suspicious activity. This can be done anonymously and toll-free at any time of the day, by calling 1-877-820-0999, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous online reports can also be submitted at www.stoppoaching.ca or www.nlcrimestoppers.com .

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2015 07 08                              10:30 a.m.