- Glen Owen Wright, former director of All Weather Fishing Company Ltd, jailed for illegal fishing practices.
- Nearly 15 tonnes of snapper and hundreds of kilograms of other fish were caught without legal quota.
- Investigation highlights growing concerns over black market seafood trade in New Zealand.
A former company executive has been sentenced to 16 months in prison after overseeing a large-scale illegal fishing operation that defied New Zealand’s strict sustainability laws.
According to Fisheries New Zealand, Wright knew about the unlawful activities but took no action, allowing his business to profit from unsanctioned fishing.
Illegal Fishing Nets Jail Time for Former Company Director in Major Fisheries Act Breach
Fisheries New Zealand’s compliance team conducted an extensive investigation, which revealed systemic failures within the company. Not only was the catch unreported, but it was also sold without proper records, making it difficult to trace and evaluate the environmental impact of the fishing.
This sentencing comes on the heels of another related case where Sea World Ltd, trading as Seamart, was fined $360,000 for acquiring and distributing illegally sourced fish. Their employee, Marco Taukatelata, was jailed for over three years, and another former director received home detention for their involvement.
Wright’s company was placed under interim liquidation in March, and he is currently serving time for unrelated criminal charges. His additional sentencing further reflects a pattern of unethical conduct and neglect of corporate responsibility.
Authorities urge the public to report suspicious fishing activity via the 0800 4 POACHER hotline, reinforcing their commitment to enforcing regulations that protect New Zealand’s rich marine biodiversity.
This case underscores the growing necessity for rigorous compliance in the seafood industry and signals a stern warning to others involved in illicit fishing operations.
“The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth.” – Marlee Matlin
