19 Indonesian nationals fined for illegal sea cucumber haul in Australian waters

Nineteen Indonesian nationals pleaded guilty to illegally fishing in Australian waters in three separate cases at Darwin Local Court on July 8, the Australian Border Force (ABF) said earlier this week.

The matters arose from incidents where Australian authorities identified, intercepted and apprehended: ​​an Indonesian vessel fishing illegally on June 22, 2025, in the Cobourg Marine Park, Northern Territory; and two Indonesian vessels fishing illegally on June 25, 2025, near Maningrida, Northern Territory.

Following both seizures, the Indonesian crews were detained and transported to Darwin for further investigation by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority. ABF seized the vessels, and they were destroyed at sea in accordance with Australian law.

Authorities seized a total of 130 kg of sea cucumber, 390 kg of salt used to process and preserve catch, navigational aids and various fishing equipment.

All 19 fishers were charged with offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991.

The masters of the three vessels were each fined AU$6,000 (US$4,000) and 15 crewmembers were each fined AU$3,500 (US$2,300). One crewmember with a previous finding of guilt for similar offending was fined AU$4,000 (US$2,600).

All fines are payable within 28 days with potential terms of imprisonment in the event of default.

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.