AFCD lays charges against local coxswain and five Mainland fishermen deckhands suspected of using snake cages for fishing
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 12) laid charges against a local coxswain and five Mainland fishermen deckhands suspected of engaging in fishing using snake cages on a local vessel in waters off Po Toi.
The AFCD recently noted that there was a fishing vessel engaging in illegal fishing using snake cages in the southeastern waters of Hong Kong and mounted a joint operation with the Police yesterday (May 11). During the joint operation, the Police intercepted a local vessel at around 10am suspected of engaging in fishing using snake cages. Some fishing gear, including snake cages and winches, was seized by the AFCD officers from the vessel.
After an investigation, the six persons were charged with contravening the Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171). They will appear at the Eastern Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (May 13).
Only a vessel registered under the Ordinance can be used for fishing in Hong Kong waters and only the fishing methods listed on its Certificate of Registration of Local Fishing Vessel can be employed for fishing by the vessel. The conditions of the Certificate of Registration of Local Fishing Vessel regarding cage traps also stipulate that any collapsible cage traps should not be connected in any way to one another; or should not exceed 5 metres in any of its extended dimensions. Hence, it is unlawful to fish using snake cages. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction.
An AFCD spokesman stressed, "The Government is committed to combating illegal fishing activities in Hong Kong waters. The AFCD will continue to step up patrols and take stringent enforcement action."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department today (May 12) laid charges against a local coxswain and five Mainland fishermen deckhands suspected of engaging in fishing using snake cages on a local vessel in waters off Po Toi. Photo shows some of the winches seized. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department today (May 12) laid charges against a local coxswain and five Mainland fishermen deckhands suspected of engaging in fishing using snake cages on a local vessel in waters off Po Toi. Photo shows some of the snake cages seized. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department today (May 12) laid charges against a local coxswain and five Mainland fishermen deckhands suspected of engaging in fishing using snake cages on a local vessel in waters off Po Toi. Photo shows the local vessel concerned. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
