Six former police officers with over 150 years of policing experience between them have been appointed by the Angling Trust to help in the fight against fisheries crime.

The new Regional Enforcement Managers will advise anglers on the law, raise awareness that poaching and fish theft are criminal offences, and work with the police, Environment Agency and other partners on fisheries-related issues.

Covering the whole of England, the six will be part of the Angling Trust’s new Fisheries Enforcement Support Service, in partnership with and funded by Environment Agency rod licence money. In addition, they will also be supporting staff on the ‘Building Bridges’ project – aimed at encouraging migrant anglers to fish legally – and on the roll-out of the Voluntary Bailiff Service across the country.

The new Regional Enforcement Managers include the former head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit, and high-calibre detectives and inspectors, and all have received commendations for their policing throughout their careers.

The Angling Trust’s Head of Enforcement Dilip Sarkar MBE, himself a retired West Mercia police officer, said: “This is a massive step forward in the fight to protect fish and fisheries, and – from a non-government organisation – is an unprecedented initiative. The experience of the new recruits across a wide range of specialisms will give angling a distinct advantage and spells bad news for offenders. I am very much looking forward to working with my team for the benefit of legitimate anglers.”

Source: The Angling Trust

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