Australian authorities detain seven Indonesian nationals for illegal fishing in Northern Territory

​​The Australian Border Force (ABF) has intercepted a foreign fishing vessel and apprehended seven crewmembers for allegedly fishing illegally in waters off the Northern Territory (NT), the ABF said in a press release dated June 15.

Bawinanga indigenous rangers originally sighted the craft near Maningrida and reported it to the ABF.

Under Operation Lunar, ABF promptly directed the Cape-class patrol boat ABFC Cape York and a helicopter into the area, collecting a Bawinanga ranger to assist with the search.

Cape York found and intercepted the fishers near the remote NT community on June 6. ABF officers boarded the suspect vessel and seized 750 kg of sea cucumber, 30 kg of salt used to preserve catch, and fishing equipment.

In consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) and after consideration of the operational circumstances, the vessel was apprehended and seven Indonesian fishers were detained.

Authorities destroyed the vessel at sea in accordance with Australian law. The fishers have meanwhile been brought to Darwin to be investigated by AFMA for alleged offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991.

Information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders can be provided to Border Watch online.