As a result of reports from the public and subsequent investigations by officers with the Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, several big game charges are pending for violations of the Wild Life Act on the Great Northern Peninsula.

Between October 14, 2022 and November 4, 2022, the Roddickton and Port Saunders detachments of the Resource Enforcement Division received three separate complaints of moose and caribou poaching in the areas of Castor River North, Coles Pond and Griquet. Follow-up investigations resulted in the seizure of one all-terrain vehicle, a trailer, two moose, one caribou and two high-powered hunting rifles.

Charges are pending against eight male individuals. Charges include transporting big game without the tags attached, illegal possession of big game, killing big game in the wrong moose management area, killing big game without a licence and discharging a firearm within 300 meters of a dwelling.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to protecting the province’s wildlife resources and ensuring they remain sustainably managed for the enjoyment and benefit of all residents of the province.

The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing and hunting activity, as this information plays a significant role in assisting investigations being conducted by Resource Enforcement Officers.

The public can report suspicious activity anonymously at any time by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

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Media contact
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca