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Department of Conservation says the meat and liver of a Great White Shark were seized following a search warrant at a residential address in Tauranga.

DOC investigators executed the search warrant following the discovery of a Shark’s head decapitated at a beach within the base of Mount Maunganui in May.

A man who resided at the address is assisting the investigators with further enquiries.

DOC Principal Compliance Officer Dylan Swain says anyone catching protected species incidentally should be reporting the incident to them.

“Fishers are expected to not only know Fisheries regulations for the area they are in, but also to be able to identify the species they catch and whether or not they can be legally taken,” he said.

“We would like to thank members of the public who reported this and shared information with us.”

Source: CC/ 123rf.com

The Wildlife Act 1953 protects Great White Sharks and anyone who is found killing or has possession of them can face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to $250,000.

No further public comments will be released following the investigation as it continues.

To report any suspected illegal activity members of the public should ring the DOC emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Image: SUPPLIED/White Shark Conservation Trust

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