ABF and AFMA Collaborate to Stop Illegal Fishing in Australian Waters
On Friday, Australian Border Force (ABF) intercepted two illegal foreign fishing vessels near Maningrida in the Northern Territory. Acting on a community tip-off, authorities found the vessels hiding in mangroves near Junction Bay.
ABF personnel, in collaboration with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), seized 190kg of sea cucumber, 240kg of salt, and fishing equipment.
One vessel was destroyed at sea under biosecurity laws, while the second was escorted out of Australian waters. Rear Admiral Brett Sonter commended the swift response and praised the community’s role in protecting Australia’s 30,000-kilometer coastline.
Justin Bathurst from AFMA emphasized the agency’s commitment to detecting and prosecuting illegal fishers, who risk losing their vessels, catch, and facing imprisonment.
This operation highlights the importance of community vigilance and collaborative efforts in safeguarding Australia’s marine resources.
ABF