World News

Australia Intercepts and Destroys Illegal Fishing Boats Entering Territory


The Australian Border Force seized over 200 boats, sunk 48, and apprehended 1,000 fishermen.

Recently, the Australian Border Force reported the seizure and burning of numerous illegal fishing vessels from Indonesia that entered the country’s waters.

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, the commander of Operation Sovereign Borders, informed Seven News that two operations at the country’s northern borders resulted in the seizure of over 200 boats, sinking 48, and apprehending 1,000 fishermen. This maritime security operation was conducted in coordination with the Indonesian government.

Cabinet Minister Jason Clare expressed the seriousness of illegal fishing, stating, “The only way to stop it is to burn their boats, send a message that if you do this, you will lose the most valuable thing you have, your boat.”

Operation GANNET, executed between May 8 and 17 last year, involved vessels, aircraft, and personnel from various agencies to combat illegal sea activities in the northern border.

Furthermore, the Albanese government is actively working to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) seafood from entering Australia and supporting legitimate seafood suppliers. They have allocated $1.7 million to enhance the protection of the country’s northern borders from such activities.

In a separate statement, Mr. Sonter reiterated the commitment of the Australian Border Force to protect maritime borders from security threats, including foreign fishing activities.

Recent cases involved illegal fishing activities, leading to 18 fishermen pleading guilty in the Darwin Local Court for illegal operations at the northern border.

Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley expressed concerns about the growing illegal fishing activities and supported the operations aimed at combating such activities in the country.

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing globally leads to substantial financial losses each year, affecting the global fish catch industry.

Australian authorities have taken actions against illegal fishing, with penalties imposed on individuals caught fishing illegally in Australian waters.

Justin Bathurst, the AFMA general manager for fisheries operations, emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal fishing activities on Australia’s marine stocks and commercial fishing industry.



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