Australian authorities detain foreign fishermen for two-tonne illegal sea cucumber haul

The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized a combined 2.1 tonnes of sea cucumber, detained eight foreign fishers and destroyed two vessels allegedly fishing illegally in waters off the Northern Territory.

The actions are the latest under the ABF-led, multi-agency Operation Lunar, which stood up last year to respond to the increase in illegal foreign fishing in the area.

On Friday, August 8, authorities detected and apprehended an Indonesian vessel allegedly fishing illegally near the Cobourg Peninsula. ABF officers boarded and identified three crewmembers, 500 kg of sea cucumber, three shark fins and a variety of fishing equipment.

In consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) and after consideration of the operational circumstances, authorities seized the catch and fishing equipment. The vessel was disposed of at sea in accordance with Australian law.

On Saturday, August 9, authorities detected and apprehended a second Indonesian vessel allegedly fishing illegally near the Cobourg Peninsula. Officers boarded and identified five crew members, 1,600 kg of sea cucumber and a variety of fishing equipment.

In consultation with AFMA and after consideration of the operational circumstances, ABF seized the catch and fishing equipment. The sea cucumber was returned to the ocean, and the vessel disposed of at sea in accordance with Australian law.

ABF transported all eight crew members to Darwin, where they will face further investigation by AFMA for alleged offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991.

The combined 2.1 tonnes of sea cucumber has an estimated market value of AU$210,000 (US$140,000).