18 Feb 2009

Fiji villagers warned by Government over alleged extortion for fishing access

3:13 pm on 18 February 2009

The interim Fiji Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama says villagers extorting money for the use of some fishing grounds will face the full force of the law.

The warning comes after Mr Bainimarama's office received allegations of extortion over access to fishing grounds in the Ba area.

It is alleged that villagers of Votua in Ba are demanding payment of 300 US dollars before any rights to fish are granted.

Mr Bainimarama, in a statement, says that laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fishing grounds are straightforward.

He says once a licence and permission is obtained from the Government no other charges apply.

Mr Bainimarama says, if proved, the claims made about the Votua villagers could prove costly.