AFCD examines 2 Mainlanders presumed of prohibited fishing (with image)
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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) is examining 2 Mainlanders for thought unlawful hookah fishing in the waters off Lung Kwu Chau.
At about 12.30 am today (April 22), AFCD officers identified a vessel in the waters off Lung Kwu Chau geared up with an air compressor, pipelines linked to the sea and a spear weapon. It is thought that the unregistered vessel was being utilized for prohibited hookah fishing including with a spear weapon. AFCD officers obstructed the stated vessel for examination, and consequently took some fishing equipment discovered on board.
The AFCD is presently examining 2 Mainlanders on board for thought conflict of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171).
Just a vessel signed up under the Ordinance can be utilized for fishing in Hong Kong waters and just the fishing approaches noted on its Certificate of Registration of Local Fishing Vessel can be used for fishing by the vessel. Culprits are accountable to an optimum fine of $100,000 and 6 months’ jail time upon conviction.
An AFCD representative stated, “The Government is committed to cracking down on illegal fishing activities in Hong Kong waters. The AFCD will maintain close contact with relevant law enforcement departments and step up patrols and stringently enforce the law.”