Issued at 10am, Friday 7 September 2007
NSW Police Force is warning horse owners that any breaches of the currently enforced transportation stand-still of horses will not be tolerated and will be dealt with the full force of the law.
Horses, ponies and donkeys cannot be moved anywhere in the state and restrictions are in place for horse floats and trucks which can spread the disease via infected material.
The restriction is in place for an indefinite period.
NSW Police Force is providing essential assistance in enforcing the horse stand-still and will be watching out for anyone who attempts to move horses.
Currently there are more than 200 incidents reported or identified that are being investigated by police and the Department of Primary Industries.
Two non-compliance cases have been deemed to be serious breaches of the movement order. Several people are assisting with inquiries.
Police have the power to stop and search motor vehicles containing horses, donkeys and mules.
Under these powers police can direct people to return to their property of origin and keep their animals there in compliance with control orders until movement restrictions are lifted.
Anyone who breaches the stand-still orders can face penalties of $44,000 or 12-months gaol. This is about protecting an industry and the livelihood it provides.
Police will not tolerate ignorance or excuses when dealing with breaches of the ban.
Any member of the public who sees horses being transported can contact their local police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
We are asking anyone who needs information about the current situation to contact the Public Help Hotline 1800 675 888, or go to the website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/equine-influenza
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Authorised by Assistant Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, Commander – Western Region
(Ref: gk: f:meddocs/medrels/2007/september/equinestandstillenforcement.070907)