A GROUP of foreign national were caught illegally fishing for razor clams on the Dorset coast.

Police joined officials from Southern IFCA, Marine Management Organisation, Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority and BCP Council's Environmental Officer in the operation yesterday.

A police spokesman said: "Poole NPT assisted Marine NPT PCSO Dave Brown with a multi agency operation for threehours of todays shift - Operation Aidant.

"Police interest in Operation Aidant relates to modern slavery offences.

"Our involvement is key to protect vulnerable individuals who may have been trafficked or forced to work.

"A group of foreign nationals were dealt with, two males were from out of county.

"They were fishing for razor clams, suspected to be for a restaurant located in East Bournemouth.

"Cockles legislation means fishing for cockles is prohibited between 1st February and 30th April.

"In relation to oysters, mussels and clams, hand picking only.

"Due to the circumstances, IFCA Officers ensured the shellfish were returned to the water."

More information can be found on Southern IFCA's website www.southern-ifca.gov.uk Op Aidant will be run on low tides, where resources permit.