Foreign nationals caught illegally fishing for razor clams off the Dorset coast
Poole NPT assisted with the multi agency operation
Last updated 28th Apr 2021
Two males from out of county were dealt with after being caught fishing for razor clams, suspected to be for a restaurant located in East Bournemouth.
Poole NPT assisted Marine NPT PCSO Dave Brown for a three hour with a multi agency operation yesterday as part of Operation Aidant which relates to modern slavery offences.
Dorset Police said their involvement is key to protect vulnerable individuals who may have been trafficked or forced to work.
Police also joined colleagues from Southern IFCA, Marine Management Organisation, Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority, BCP's Environmental Officer.
Under cockles legislation, fishing for then is not allowed between 1st February and 30th April.
In relation to Oysters, Mussels & Clams, hand picking only. Use of rakes or similar equipment is also not permitted.
Due to this, IFCA Officers ensured the animals were returned to the water.
More information can be found on Southern IFCA's website.