Media release
Border Protection Command (BPC), working closely with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), has apprehended a foreign fishing vessel approximately two nautical miles north of Ashmore Island, suspected of illegally fishing in the Australian Fishing Zone.
An Australian Customs and Border Protection Service vessel, operating under the control of BPC, intercepted the fishing vessel on Wednesday, 6 May 2015.
During a search of the vessel, BPC personnel recovered approximately 50kg of fresh reef fish on board. Officers also uncovered Hookah gear, handlines and scuba gear, in addition to location equipment including GPS, a compass and a fish finding system.
The vessel will now be brought to Darwin, along with five crew members.
Acting Commander Border Protection Command, Abigail Bradshaw, said that BPC was committed to stopping those who illegally fish in Australia’s northern waters.
“Illegal foreign fishing in northern waters can impact on the livelihood of remote Australian communities who rely on a healthy marine ecosystem,” Acting Commander Bradshaw said.
“Border Protection Command officers are committed to working with AFMA to stamp out illegal activity and to protect the economic and resource benefits illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing seeks to destroy.”
AFMA’s General Manager of Operations, Mr Peter Venslovas, reinforced this message stating this is another example which sends a strong message that Australia will not tolerate IUU fishing.
“IUU fishing undermines the strict rules and regulations Australia has in place to protect our fisheries and marine resources,” Mr Venslovas said.
“Already this year we have had success in both the northern and southern oceans to combat illegal fishing and AFMA remains committed to working with BPC to apprehend those who seek to break the law.”
Media enquiries:
ACBPS Media: (02) 6275 6793
AFMA Media: 0437 869 860