Two men have had their nets, waders and other equipment seized after being caught illegally whitebaiting last night.
Police and the Department of Conservation have been running the joint Operation Īnaka, focusing on whitebaiters illegally fishing in Western Southland.
Last night, Western Southland Police ran the third enforcement night targeting anyone who was whitebaiting outside of the legal season.
"Whitebaiting season ended on 31 October, so it is disappointing that we located two men illegally fishing at the Waiau River mouth last night," says Western Southland Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Graham.
"We have seized their whitebaiting fishing equipment and will be referring the incident to the Department of Conservation to consider prosecution action.
"I encourage all whitebaiters to familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations around fishing activity, in order to avoid any confusion," Senior Sergeant Graham says.
Police urge the community to report any illegal or suspicious activity by calling 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.
You can also make a report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Information on whitebaiting is available on the Department of Conservation Whitebaiting website.
