Officers patrolling rural areas near Andover stopped a vehicle and arrested four men for suspected fish poaching offences.

They stopped an SUV-type vehicle in Weyhill Road, Weyhill, at around 3am this morning (Thursday 8 May).

The vehicle was searched vehicle and 26 Rainbow Trout were found inside, as well as catapults and fishing equipment.

No evidence of correct licensing was given and the four men, all from Wales, were arrested.

A 33-year-old man from Pontypool was arrested on suspicion of using a motor vehicle on the road with third party insurance or valid test certificate, theft and theft of fishing rights.

A 37-year-old man from Pontypool, a 38-year-old man from Pontypool and a 59-year-old man from Brynmawr were arrested on suspicion of theft and theft of fishing rights. 

They are currently in police custody. The vehicle was also seized.

Our enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44250199384.

The act of fish poaching in fresh water rivers, where a private right of fishery exists, is a criminal offence under Schedule 1 of the Theft Act 1968.

This can put businesses at significant financial disadvantage, and undermine the efforts of riverkeepers who work hard to organise the beats and opportunities for legitimate customers.

Fish poaching is often also linked with other offences in the rural area, such as burglary.

This is why we regularly work with partners such as the Environment Agency and The Angling Trust to catch offenders and reduce poaching on the river network.

Anyone with information about fish poaching can report it to us via the 101 number, or use the reporting tool on our website - https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/

If you are a member of DISC, you can also use this platform to provide information to the police.

ENDS