The Forestry Department is sounding a warning to all would-be offenders, to desist from poisoning the rivers as a means of catching crayfish and other aquatic life.
The warning comes after two persons were accosted in the act following an incident in the Marriaqua Valley.
In a news release, the Department said it has zero tolerance for all such activities in which attempts are made to capture river lobsters, crayfish, shrimp and fishes by the use of any hazardous means or substances.
These will also include:
Any electrical devices, any noxious substance or any item that is likely to cause injury to any protected or partially protected wildlife.
In accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act No. 16 of 1987, any person found guilty of such an offence is liable to a fine of $2000 and imprisonment for 6 months.
River poisoning is illegal: it can cause disruption to the natural processes of the rivers, streams and springs and may endanger the lives of those who eat the poisoned species or use the affected water downstream.