A Vancouver business owner is facing a hefty fine as part of a major crackdown on the seafood industry.
Ying Chiu pleaded guilty last month to two counts of purchasing spot prawns caught out of season, in January and February.
Chiu will be forced to pay a $30,000 fine for his infractions, according to a statement issued by Fisheries and Oceans Canada on Tuesday.
The charges stemmed from a major crackdown on the illegal harvest and sale of spot prawns and crabs, which launched in 2014. The investigation specifically focused on the Vancouver retail and restaurant seafood market.
A total of 38 violations of the Fisheries Act were laid against two businesses and seven individuals, the department said.
The Fisheries Act dictates that only fish caught under a licence may be purchased or sold, and all fish must be processed through a licensed plant to ensure quality. Fish that has not been expected may be unsafe.
Spot prawns can only be harvested and sold during open season, which typically runs from May to June.
