Man to face court over assault of fisheries officers

A 50-year-old Kogarah Bay man will face court over allegedly assaulting DPI fisheries officers on the Cooks River foreshore, NSW DPI Manager Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said today.

Mr Tritton said DPI Fisheries Officers approached the man who was digging for worms on Friday 5th of January along the foreshore of the Cooks River next to Cahill Park.

“Cooks River is closed to all methods of fishing except by hook and line.

“The officers inspected his recreational fishing licence, fishing gear and catch.

“When they attempted to take his details for digging in a prohibited area he allegedly picked up a shovel with a 1.5 metre long shaft, chased them along the foreshore and swung the shovel at them, narrowly missing one the officers.

“Police were called and placed the man under arrest. He was later charged at Kogarah police station with assaulting fisheries officers, which carries a maximum fine of $22,000 fine and taking fish illegally, which also carries a $22,000 penalty. He was also charged with and being in possession of illegally taken fish which has a maximum fine of $11,000.

“Fisheries officers seized his fishing rod and bucket, while police officers seized his shovel,” Mr Tritton said.

The man is due to appear at the Kogarah Local Court on 23rd January.

Illegal fishing activity can be reported to your local DPI office or by calling the fishers watch hotline 1800 043 536.

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