Eco-radical Paul Watson on the run
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OTTAWA - There is no love lost between the federal government and fugitive environmental vigilante Paul Watson - the subject of an international manhunt after skipping bail in Germany.
"I can say that Paul Watson and the radical activist group known as the Sea Shepherd Society have consistently shown a willingness to engage in reckless behaviour and have shown no regard for Canadian or international law," said Public Safety Minister Vic Toews through spokesman Mike Mueller. "Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of this individual should contact Interpol immediately."
Germany authorities arrested Watson on May 13 at Costa Rica's request, which wants to try him for allegedly ramming the boat of a shark-finning ship crew in 2002, endangering their lives.
Watson posted 250,000 euros ($307,000) bail and was supposed to report to police twice daily, but he is reported to have fled Germany last Wednesday for an "undisclosed destination."
Interpol has had a blue notice out for Watson since 2010, as Japanese authorities look for help finding him in relation to Sea Shepherd attacks on whaling boat crews.
Meantime, Sea Shepherd is using the Watson manhunt as a fundraising opportunity.
The group's online Save Our Skipper campaign includes a prominent link soliciting donations, though there is no explanation how the money will be used to "save" Watson.
Sea Shepherd has not responded to QMI Agency's request for comment.
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