Australian Border Force has seized another foreign boat suspected of being used for illegal fishing in the Torres Strait. Photos: ABF.
Locals have again helped Australian Border Force (ABF) detect a foreign vessel and crew suspected of illegal fishing as Operation Broadstaff continues across Far North Queensland.
The joint illegal fishing crackdown involving the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) launched in February.
Since 1 January, the ABF has intercepted 24 foreign fishing boats off northern Queensland and the Torres Strait, 14 of which have been destroyed.
Well over 150 fishers, mainly Indonesian, have faced court and some reoffenders have been locked up since the operation began.
On 21 August, the ABF found the boat and crew members near Little Adolphus Island thanks to local tip-offs.
Officers boarded the boat and allegedly found evidence of suspected fisheries offences, including fishing gear and 700 kilograms of salt, often used to preserve catch.
The boat was intercepted before any marine animals could be caught, according to the ABF.
Officers seized the vessel and detained the crew following consultation with AFMA.
Crew members were due to be taken to Darwin as AFMA investigated offences under the Torres Strait Fisheries Act 1984.
The ABF was working with partner agencies to determine the fate of the boat, with some burned at sea following previous seizures.
The ABF burned five illegal foreign fishing boats at sea as part of Operation Broadstaff earlier this year.
Maritime Border Command Deputy Commander Natasha O’Farrell said the seizure showed the ABF-led crackdown was working in the Torres Strait.
“Operation Broadstaff remains active and this apprehension shows our officers continue to patrol, detect and act against suspected illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait,” she said.
“I want to thank the local community members who reported this vessel.
“Communities across the Torres Strait are vital eyes and ears and one part of a layered approach that includes aerial surveillance, patrol vessels, land patrols and intelligence operations.
“Illegal fishing activity can fluctuate, but our resolve does not. If you enter Australian waters to fish illegally, you risk losing your catch, your equipment and your vessel, and you may face prosecution.”
Suspected illegal foreign fishing can be reported by phoning CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 or emailing [email protected].
