AFCD officers intercept Mainland vessel suspected of operating illegally in Hong Kong waters (with photo)

     Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) officers intercepted a Mainland vessel suspected of engaging in illegal fishing in Deep Bay today (November 23).
 
     The AFCD officers intercepted a Mainland vessel suspected to be carrying out illegal fishing activities in the waters near Sheung Pak Nai at about 2am today. Some catch and fishing gear including snake cages were seized on board.
 
     Charges were laid today against one Mainland man and one Mainland woman found on the vessel. They were suspected to have engaged in fishing activities which are against the Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171)  (the Ordinance). They will appear at Fanling Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (November 24).
    
     According to the Ordinance, only a registered vessel can be used for fishing in Hong Kong waters. Regardless of the type of fishing gear used, a non-local vessel is not allowed to carry out fishing activities in Hong Kong waters. Any offender on conviction is liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for six months.
 
     An AFCD spokesman said, "The Government is committed to cracking down on illegal fishing activities. The AFCD will continue to step up patrols and stringently enforce the law, and at the same time maintain close liaison with relevant law enforcement departments and carry out joint enforcement operations as necessary."