Poachers target revamped city centre pond
Hull City CouncilPolice are investigating reports of poachers targeting a city centre pond in Hull.
Humberside Police said it had received reports of a fish being stolen from one of the ponds at Queen's Gardens over the weekend.
Inquires remained ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact police.
It is the latest in a series of incidents, including littering and vandalism, reported at Queens Gardens since it fully reopened in May following a three-year £21m renovation project.
A video of the alleged incident, circulated on social media, appears to show a man holding a make-shift line over the pond.
Later in the video, the fish can be seen in a carrier bag, and then writhing around on the ground next to a bench.
According to the city council, the pond, which was cleared and then restocked following the refurbishment work, contained several ornamental carp and goldfish.
Commenting on the alleged incident, the RSPCA said: "While many anglers are responsible, scenes where fish are treated with disrespect or are in clear distress are a cause for concern."
Last month, the fountain at Queen's Gardens was switched off after vandals broke into its control room.
There have also been reports of littering at the site following its refurbishment, including discarded chewing gum and drink cans and bottles.
In 2024, there were reports of illegal fishing in the city centre at the nearby Princes Quay Shopping Centre.
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