Three illegal foreign fishing vessels intercepted off Northern Territory, Australia
The Australian Border Force (ABF) recently intercepted three illegal foreign fishing vessels in waters off Maningrida, Northern Territory.
The interceptions are part of a new ABF-led, multi-agency taskforce called Operation LUNAR, which was stood up last week to target an increase in illegal foreign fishing detected in the NT.
On Saturday, December 14, the ABF assigned air and surface assets to investigate reports from members of the Maningrida community of possible illegal foreign fishing activity.
Authorities intercepted the vessels on Sunday, December 15, and seized 500 kg of sea cucumber, 1,000 kg of salt, which is used for preserving catch, two canoes and an assortment of fishing equipment.
In consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority, the illegal fishing vessels were then escorted outside the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone.
Acting Commander of Operation LUNAR Tracie Griffin said the ABF was proactively patrolling at sea and in the air to detect suspicious activity and will take appropriate action every time a vessel is intercepted.
Operation LUNAR involves enhancing offshore capabilities in the air, on water and along the coastline to detect and respond to the threat of illegal foreign fishing. Through Operation LUNAR, the ABF will increase aerial, land and sea surveillance targeted operations; deploy ABF and Australian Defence Force vessels to deter, detect and take enforcement action in response to illegal fishers on water and land; and enhance coordination and communication with local government and community groups.
