DPI fisheries offices have apprehended two Victorian men who were found in possession of a commercial quantity of shellfish near Merimbula on Monday, June 1.
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Fisheries officers observed the men, aged 43 and 53, acting suspiciously adjacent to waters in Merimbula. They were found with a large quantity of shellfish in their vehicle.
Upon further investigation they were found to have 83 abalone and 776 whelks in their possession, which is considered a commercial quantity.
The legal possession limit for abalone is two per person and 20 whelks per person.
Unfortunately the abalone were shucked, however the whelks were alive and returned to the water by fisheries officers.
The men are now facing several charges with maximum penalties of up to $44,000 or 12 months imprisonment, or both.
Fisheries officers intend to issue court attendance notices for the men to face court later this year.
DPI was unable to provide the News Weekly with more information, including the specific location of the offence, due to continuing follow-up investigations.
DPI will continue to target the illegal taking and sale of shellfish in NSW.
Anyone who suspects illegal fishing should report it to the Fisher’s Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishe…/compliance/report-illegal-activity.