16 Indonesian nationals plead guilty to illegal fishing in Australian waters
Sixteen Indonesian nationals have pleaded guilty to illegally fishing in Australian waters in two separate cases at Darwin Local Court earlier this month, the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) confirmed via a joint press release dated June 16.
One matter arose from an incident where Australian authorities identified, intercepted and apprehended an Indonesian vessel fishing illegally on May 21 near the Cobourg Peninsula, Northern Territory.
Authorities seized 600 kg of sea cucumber, 330 kg of salt used to process and preserve catch, and a range of fishing equipment.
The crew were detained and transported to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA. ABF seized the vessel, and it was destroyed at sea in accordance with Australian law. Eight fishers were charged with offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991.
The master of the vessel was sentenced to a two-month term of imprisonment, to be released after 21 days on a AU$2,000 (US$1,300) undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of two years.
The remaining seven crew were each sentenced to a six-week term of imprisonment, to be released after 21 days on a AU$2,000 undertaking to be of good behaviour for a period of two years.
A second matter arose from an incident where Australian authorities identified, intercepted and apprehended an Indonesian vessel fishing illegally on May 14 near Scott Reef.
Authorities seized 150 kg of salt used to process and preserve catch, and fishing equipment including spears and diving apparatus.
The crew were detained and transported to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA. ABF seized the vessel, and it was destroyed at sea in accordance with Australian law.
Eight fishers were charged with offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991. The master of the vessel was fined AU$5,000 (US$3,300) and the remaining crew were each fined $2,500 (US$1,600).
All fishers will be removed from Australia by ABF and returned to Indonesia at the earliest opportunity.
Illegal fishing activity in Australian waters can be reported to Australian authorities by contacting CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 or intelligence@afma.gov.au.
