(CMR) The Department of Environment (DoE) said conservation officers recently seized 86 conch totaling 40 pounds during an operation where two males were found illegally taking conch from a Marine Reserve in the Barkers area of West Bay.
The two suspects face charges of “Taking marine life from a Marine Reserve” and “Taking Conch above the daily limit,” which is 5 per person or 10 per boat per day. The seized conch was donated to Meals On Wheels and was turned into meals for seniors at their George Town and West Bay kitchens.
“This is a strong reminder that although conch is currently in season, the marine park boundaries and rules remain in full effect. When people poach our fisheries, they severely jeopardize their ability to replenish and continue producing enough food for everyone. Please respect our marine park boundaries, catch limits and seasons so we can continue to enjoy local seafood for generations to come,” the DoE said in a statement on its social media page.
People are encouraged to say something if they see anyone engaged in suspicious activity. The public can report suspicious activity via phone or WhatsApp to 916-4271 or by calling 911.
Providing as much information as possible, as soon as possible, can help cases move through to prosecution, especially if you call when the illegal activity is still in progress, the DoE stated.
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