Illegal fishing vessels intercepted in Rowley Shoals off Western Australia

The Australian Border Force (ABF) intercepted two illegal foreign fishing vessels last week off the coast of Western Australia as part of an ongoing operation to combat the practice in Australian waters.

On February 27, two vessels suspected to be illegally fishing were located and intercepted within the Rowley Shoals Marine Park, 300 kilometres west of Broome. One was in the vicinity of Clerke Reef and the other was near Mermaid Reef.

Further investigations showed evidence of fisheries offences. After consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), the ABF decided to conduct a legislative forfeiture of the two vessels' catch and equipment.

A total of 129 kg of sea cucumber was seized from the vessels and was later disposed of at sea. Also seized were fishing equipment including knives, breathing apparatus, and bags of salt.

One of the seized vessels was safely destroyed after the crew were transferred to the second vessel, which was then directed to leave Australian waters.

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander Maritime Border Command, said the two interceptions were the result of a multi-agency taskforce targeting illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters.

Anyone with information about suspicious activity that may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch online.