The RNC is investigating the circumstances surrounding the harvesting of a seal near the Marina in St. Philips.
Residents were shocked and dismayed when it was discovered that a harbour seal that had been drawing curiosity seekers and photographers had been killed – possibly by being shot – and removed from the site.
Witnesses indicate the person responsible was a young man who stuffed the dead seal, wrapped in a plastic bag, in the trunk of his car.
RNC Constable James Cadigan says whether the person involved violated any regulations under federal sealing laws is a matter for DFO, but the Constabulary is investigating whether any firearms-related laws apply.
He says investigators are trying to determine whether any laws related to the transportation of a firearm, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle and firing a firearm in close proximity to homes were violated in the case.