Australian Border Force (ABF) has intercepted an illegal foreign fishing vessel and seized approximately 1,200 kilograms of trepang (sea cucumber).
The seizure is the latest under the ABF-led, multi-agency Operation LUNAR, stood up last year to respond to the increase in illegal foreign fishing detected in the area.
ABF aerial surveillance patrols last Friday (17 January 2025), sighted the vessel in the vicinity of Cuthbert Point near Maningrida before ABF officers responded and boarded the vessel.
In addition to the 1,200 kilograms of trepang, ABF officers seized 30 kilograms of salt (used for preserving catch) and an assortment of fishing equipment.
After assessment of the circumstances - including consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), the vessel was apprehended, with seven Indonesian fishers detained to be brought into Darwin for further investigation of suspected offences under the Fisheries Management Act 1991.
The vessel will be disposed of in accordance with Australian law.
ABF Operation LUNAR Acting Commander Tracie Griffin said persistent illegal foreign fishing threatened fish stocks and damaged Australia's valuable marine environment.
"Seizures like this one highlight the scale of threat to Australia's unique marine environment that illegal foreign fishing represents," Acting Commander Griffin said.
"Under Operation LUNAR, ABF officers are committed to protecting Australia's Exclusive Economic Zone and our maritime sovereignty.
"To those seeking to exploit Australia's marine environment I say this: you will be caught, you will lose your catch and possibly your vessel and you may be subject to further prosecution."
Information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders can be provided to Border Watch online.
By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.
