Six Indonesian nationals have pleaded guilty to fishing illegally in Australian waters at Darwin Local Court earlier this month.
The charges followed the location and apprehension of an Indonesian fishing vessel on August 21, 2026, by Australian authorities as part of Operation Broadstaff.
The vessel was reported by local community members after being sighted near Little Adolphus Island in the Torres Strait off Queensland. The Australian Border Force (ABF) responded and found the vessel taking on water.
Six crew were located on board along with fishing equipment and approximately 700 kg of salt, commonly used to preserve sea cucumber.
The crew were detained and transported to Darwin for further investigation by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority.
All six crewmembers were charged and subsequently pleaded guilty at Darwin Local Court to offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991 (Cth).
For the current matter, the court imposed two-year good behaviour bonds for all six crewmembers, including the master.
Three crew were identified as having been before the court previously for similar offending.
Two of these accused were found to have breached existing good behaviour bonds and were re-sentenced to one-month terms of imprisonment, suspended immediately. The other was subject to an outstanding warrant for an unpaid fine, and he is now serving a 16-day period imprisonment for that matter.
In sentencing, the judge noted the significant biosecurity risks posed by illegal foreign fishing activity and emphasised the importance of protecting Australia's marine resources and environment.
Whilst no catch was found on board the vessel, the court emphasised that penalties remained necessary to reflect the seriousness of unlawful fishing activity in Australian waters and to deter future offending.
Illegal fishing activity in Australian waters can be reported to Australian authorities by contacting CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 or intelligence@afma.gov.au.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity that may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
