The HMAS Broome intercepted a foreign fishing vessel 3.1nm south of the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone on 16 December 2015.
A search of the vessel identified as the “Berkah” (translated ‘blessing’ in Bahasa) revealed there was fresh catch on board with approximately 200 kilograms of fresh and 200 kilograms of frozen fish uncovered. The vessel had the capacity to take large commercial quantities of catch from Australian waters, with fish holds containing ice to keep the fish fresh for sale.
Port side shot of apprehended foreign fishing vessel “Berkah”
The vessel was apprehended as it was not authorised to undertake fishing in Australian waters. The master, Mr Wahyudi, attended the Darwin Magistrates Court on 15 January 2016 and pleaded guilty to being in charge of the unlicensed vessel. He received a $7,500 fine and the vessel has been destroyed.
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) acting General Manager of Operations, Kerry Smith, said last week’s conviction is a warning to those seeking to illegally plunder Australian marine resources.
“If you do the wrong thing, you will be caught and face the harsh penalties for illegal fishing,” Ms Smith said.
“To protect valuable fish stocks from exploitation AFMA works together with other Commonwealth agencies to ensure that breaches of Australia’s Fisheries Management Act 1991 are detected and individuals prosecuted.”
As part of Australia’s broader strategy, this collaborative approach has been highly effective in reducing the number of incursions in northern Australia over the last decade. However, given Australia has well managed fisheries and healthy fish stocks, there is always the temptation for illegal foreign fishers to try their luck.
AFMA continues to work with Commonwealth and international counterparts to deter illegal fishing, both in the Australian Fishing Zone and in our region.
More information on how Australia is working to combat illegal fishing can be found at afma.gov.au
ENDS