The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized more than 600 kilograms of sea cucumber (trepang) following interception of three Indonesian fishing vessels in separate incidents last week off the Kimberley Coast.
Between Thursday 19 September and Saturday 21 September 2024, multi-agency taskforce Maritime Border Command (MBC) detected and intercepted three foreign fishing vessels in the vicinity of Augustus Island, Eclipse Island and Vansittart Bay in the Kimberley Marine Park.
MBC officers boarded and inspected each vessel and, in consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), seized more than 630 kilograms of sea cucumber, 325 kilograms of salt (used for preserving catch), assorted dried fish and associated fishing equipment. Two of the fishing vessels were seized and destroyed at sea in accordance with Australian law.
A section of the crew, believed to be Indonesian nationals, were transferred by ABF to the Australian mainland. They will be investigated by AFMA for suspected offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991 (Cth).
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander MBC, said the interceptions send a warning to those attempting to exploit Australian waters.
"Officers from MBC and AFMA are working tirelessly to protect our vast coastline and ensure those who seek to profit from illegal fishing are detected and detained," Rear Admiral Sonter said.
"The message is clear - you will be caught, you will lose your catch, your equipment and likely your vessel.
"I'd like to thank the hardworking officers of MBC, as well as members of the public who report to Border Watch, for your ongoing efforts to protect Australia's sovereign waters."
Mr Justin Bathurst, AFMA General Manager of Fisheries Operations, said Australia's healthy fisheries resources remain an attractive target for illegal fishing operators.
"Illegal fishing has serious implications for our marine environment as well as commercial and recreational fishing industries," Mr Bathurst said.
"AFMA and our partner agencies remain focused on apprehending illegal fishing vessels. Those caught fishing illegally in Australian waters risk seizure of their catch and equipment, destruction of their vessel and prosecution in an Australian court."
In response to increased illegal fishing activity, the ABF has boosted its presence in the region with Operation Leedstrum established in late 2023. This investment has provided additional land-based patrol and response capabilities, additional staffing, patrol vehicles, and a helicopter.
MBC and AFMA have successfully conducted 57 foreign fishing vessel interceptions and successfully prosecuted 30 Indonesian fishers in Australian courts this financial year.
An additional 18 fishers are currently being held in detention awaiting court proceedings. For the previous financial year (2023-2024), there was a total of 22 apprehensions and 75 Indonesian fishers prosecuted.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch online . By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community
