Wildlife crime officers patrolled the banks of the River Trent during a joint operation to crack down on illegal angling.
Police worked alongside the Environment Agency’s fisheries’ enforcement team to detect illegal fishing and check rod licences between Farndon and Cromwell.
Police said:
‘The day of action last Wednesday (27 August) saw our officers perform spot checks, deter anti-social behaviour, and build relationships with the angling community.
‘Our officers were on hand to investigate those fishing illegally, ensuring anglers held a membership for the stretch they are fishing in. This membership goes towards upkeeping their stretch of river.
‘Meanwhile, Environment Agency officers checked rod licences to ensure those fishing have the sufficient permission, supporting angling and fisheries across England.
‘Teams are also on the lookout for anyone using illegal methods to catch fish.
‘During the operation, we provided further support on the ground, performing high-visibility patrols in a 4×4 across the surrounding area.
‘These patrols carried out by the Environment Agency – part of ‘Operation Traverse’ – are attended by a police presence every few months. Other routes see the boat travel from Newark to Nottingham city.
‘The work is supported by previous specialised angling training by the Angling Trust for police officers who work across rural communities, as they continue to protect rural spaces and crack down on wildlife crime.’
PC Gareth Nicholls, of the Newark neighbourhood policing team, said: “It’s important that all members of our communities – including anglers, boaters, and cyclists who frequent the River Trent – see a visible presence and feel supported by us.
“Other crime, including criminal damage and anti-social behaviour, can take also take place around waterways and have a serious impact on the natural environment, so working with our partners regularly ensures we protect wildlife.
“With our eyes and ears both on the ground and on the river, we are sending a warning that breaking the law will not be tolerated.”