QLD:Illegal Gold Coast crabbers pinched

AAP General News (Australia)
04-14-2011
QLD:Illegal Gold Coast crabbers pinched

GOLD COAST, April 14 AAP - A record haul of 140 illegal mud crabs has been seized on
the Gold Coast, with two people facing a maximum penalty of $100,000 if convicted.

Minister for Fisheries Craig Wallace says Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP)
officers found the record haul of 110 female crabs, which are not allowed to be taken,
and 30 undersized male crabs in the boot of a car.

"The crabs were found in large esky-sized containers with custom-made wooden lids,
in a car at Cabbage Tree Point just north of Jacobs Well," he said in a statement.

"Redlands, Pinkenba and Gold Coast QBFP officers conducted a thorough investigation
and Jacobs Well Police intercepted the car after witnessing crabs being taken from pots
in a nearby channel.

"Illegal fishing threatens future stocks and is a very serious offence, common sense
rules are in place to ensure the sustainability of our fisheries for future generations,"

Mr Wallace said.

The minister said the alleged offenders would now be prosecuted under The Fisheries Act.

To report illegal fishing activity in Queensland, call the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline
on 1800 017 116.

AAP bart/pc

KEYWORD: CRABS

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