Manitoba Conservation natural resource officers recently charged two residents of the Roblin area with hunting wildlife at night with lights in connection with an incident north of Roblin, near the Duck Mountains.
In the early morning hours of Nov. 17, natural resource officers in the Duck Mountain area were on patrol in response to an increase in complaints of illegal hunting activity in the area.
At approximately 2:30 a.m. officers witnessed a vehicle travelling along a provincial road and saw a light being shone from the vehicle towards adjacent fields and meadows. Officers stopped the vehicle and both occupants were arrested at the scene.
Manitoba Conservation’s newest canine team was on scene and was able to provide assistance in the recovery of hidden evidence. Officers seized a number of items related to illegal night hunting including firearms as well as the vehicle that was being used.
Hunting and discharging firearms at night can be very dangerous to people, livestock and property in the area, as it is virtually impossible to see what is in the path of a fired bullet, the department said.
Under the Wildlife Act, people found guilty of hunting wildlife at night with lights may face fines up to $50,000 or imprisonment of up to one year or both. Hunting equipment is subject to forfeiture and any vehicle used in the offence may also be forfeited upon conviction. Convicted people also face loss of their hunting privileges for up to five years.
To date in 2010 there have been six vehicles seized as a result of night-hunting investigations across the province.
To report a natural resources violation, call the toll-free tip line at 1-800-782-0076 any time or contact a local Manitoba Conservation office during regular business hours.
