Police in Borders appeal for help to catch salmon poachers taking advantage of Covid-19 lockdown

Police in the Borders are appealing for help to catch poachers hoping to take advantage of the current lockdown by fishing for salmon while there is less chance of being spotted.
By Darin Hutson
Published 10th Apr 2020, 10:34 BST
Updated 10th Apr 2020, 10:36 BST
The River Tweed at Kelso.The River Tweed at Kelso.
The River Tweed at Kelso.

Police have been receiving reports over recent weeks of poachers fishing in the River Tweed without permits, and two men, aged 38 and 32, were arrested in Kelso this week after allegedly being caught doing so.

A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.

Officers are working with the Tweed Commission to target poachers and are also appealing to any potential witnesses spotting illegal fishing while out for their daily exercise to get in touch.

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Constable Steven Irvine, wildlife officer for the Borders, said: “We believe the poachers may be taking advantage of our rivers being quieter than normal due to the current restrictions on travel and the limited amount of time people should be spending outdoors to help ease the pressure on the NHS and save lives.

“Fishing is not an essential reason for people to be leaving their homes, and I cannot stress this enough.

“We are asking members of the public to be vigilant, and if they come across people fishing or in breach of government guidelines, we ask that they report the matter to police at the earliest opportunity by telephoning 101.

“Alternatively, information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."