NEPA warns against using dynamite to catch fish

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is urging the public not to engage in the illegal activity of using dynamite to catch fish.

The warning comes amid reports of dynamite being used to catch fish in Alligator Pond, which is located on the border of Manchester and St Elizabeth. Using dynamite and other noxious materials with the intent to take, kill, or injure fish is an offence under Section 10 of the Wild Life Protection Act.

Persons can be fined up to $100,000, or 12 months' imprisonment, if found guilty of the offence. In addition to being illegal, the use of dynamite to harvest fish is dangerous to humans and destroys the natural environment, including the coral reefs.

NEPA, therefore, strongly advises the public to desist from the activity. Members of the public are being reminded that any use of dynamite or any other poisonous, noxious material to catch fish should be reported to NEPA at its toll-free line 1-888-991-5005, 119, or the nearest police station.