By Rob G Brandenburg
The Department of Natural Resources seized 700 kilograms of moose meat, moose parts and butcher shop equipment during an 18-month special investigation in eastern New Brunswick.
Natural Resources Minister Bruce Northrup announced the result of the special investigation, called Operation WAK, on Tuesday.
There were roughly 50 violations under the Fish and Wildlife Act compiled against several people and businesses, according to the department.
The provincial government said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.
Neil Jacobson, the acting provincial conservation manager with the Department of Natural Resources, said the operation came after years of intelligence gathering and then an 18-month investigation by conservation officers.
"One of our primary roles as conservation officers is to identify and target the illegal killing of moose or any other wildlife that undermines the province's conservation efforts," Jacobson said.
The provincial government showed off many of the items that were seized during a news conference on Tuesday in Richibucto.
Jacobson said the purchase of wild meat could pose public health risks.
As well, he said moose poaching involves dangerous hunting practices, which could also jeopardize public safety.