Kamloops RCMP say they have no hesitation issuing fines or recommending charges against boaters caught east of the CN Rail bridge while a river closure is in effect.

Staff Sgt. Grant Learned said Monday there is a misconception that police will be lenient on boaters travelling that portion of the South Thompson River, which remains closed due to high water.

The water is dropping between nine and 12 inches a day, but it's not low enough to allow for safe passage under the bridge. As well, there is heavy debris in and just under the water surface and displaced navigation buoys.

"Our goal is to keep people safe," said Learned.

Police were out on the river this weekend keeping watch over boaters.

On Saturday, they found one impaired boater — a 30-year-old Kamloops man — whose two breathalyzer tests registered at 1½ times the legal limit.

The South Thompson remains closed between the CN bridge and Red Bridge.