The hunters' association Kaccaturi San Ubertu has called for tough action against two persons who were found in possession of protected birds in Bahar ic-Caghaq.

Penalties include imprisonment, a fine and suspension of hunting licences.

"It is inconceivable that some persist in their criminal activity knowing the consequences of their despicable actions on legal hunting and being aware of the damage to the public’s perception of hunting," KSU said.

"KSU laud the authorities for the recent amendments to regulations (LN 110 of 2014) that leave no room for doubt as to the severity of such illegal activity and reflect government’s commitment towards eradicating undesirable characters from amongst the legal hunting fraternity," the association said.