The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized a foreign vessel suspected of illegal fishing in the Torres Strait, as the Australian authorities continue Operation Broadstaff, an ABF-led multi-agency operation launched in February this year to combat illegal foreign fishing across Far Northern Queensland and the Torres Strait
Last week ABF located a vessel near Little Adolphus Island following reports from the community. Officers boarded the boat and identified evidence of suspected fisheries offences, including 700kg of salt used to preserve catch, and fishing equipment. The vessel was located before any marine life was caught.
Following consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), officers seized the vessel and detained the crew, who have been transported to Darwin for further investigation in relation to suspected offences against the Torres Strait Fisheries Act 1984.
The ABF is working with partner agencies to determine the appropriate management of the vessel.
‘Operation Broadstaff remains active and this apprehension shows our officers continue to patrol, detect and act against suspected illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait,’ said Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Natasha O’Farrell.
‘Communities across the Torres Strait are vital eyes and ears and one part of a layered approach that includes aerial surveillance, patrol vessels, land patrols and intelligence operations. Illegal fishing activity can fluctuate, but our resolve does not. If you enter Australian waters to fish illegally, you risk losing your catch, your equipment and your vessel, and you may face prosecution.’
ABF has this year intercepted 24 foreign fishing vessels in waters off northern Queensland and the Torres Strait, 14 of which have now been destroyed.
