Australian Border Force, Australian Fisheries Management Authority destroy illegal fishing boat

Off the Territory coastline, an Indonesian boat was destroyed after its crew of illegal fishers were intercepted by Australian authorities. A senior navy officer says the operation was a ‘reminder’ to other criminals.

Australian authorities destroyed the boat for illegal fishing. Picture: Supplied.

An Indonesian fisher has been jailed after their boat was destroyed at sea and their crewmates dragged before Darwin Local Court for illegal fishing.

On Monday May 6, Australian authorities intercepted an Indonesian vessel fishing illegally off the Top End, approximately 65 nautical miles inside the Australian Fishing Zone.

Australian authorities boarded the vessel and seized 70 kilograms of assorted fish.

Fishing equipment was also seized, including 40 kilograms of salt, nets, hooks, fishing line, and reef walking shoes.

The crew was detained and transported to Darwin, while the vessel was destroyed at sea.

The fishers were charged with offences against the Fisheries Management Act and faced Darwin Local Court on May 28 and 30.

All fishers pleaded guilty and received good behaviour bonds with periods ranging between two and five years.

One member of the group, however, had an outstanding warrant from a previous offence and was sentenced to three months’ jail.

After the crew were detained, the boat was sent to the bottom of the sea. Picture: Supplied.

Commander Maritime Border Commander (MBC) Rear Admiral Brett Sonter said the criminal activity had far-reaching consequences.

“Illegal fishing is a key driver of global overfishing, and threatens marine ecosystems,” he said.

“The combined efforts of MBC and partner agencies such as AFMA enables surveillance, patrol and response capabilities to combat illegal activity and threats to Australia’s border.”

Rear Admiral Sonter said the successful operation was a “reminder” that authorities had “zero tolerance” for the criminal activity.

“The seizure of fishing gear and disposal of vessels serves as a reminder to those seeking to exploit Australia’s marine resources that Australian authorities have zero tolerance for such illegal activity.“

Australian Fisheries Management Authority General Manager Justin Bathurst said the authorities would continue to target criminal activity in Australian waters.

“Australia’s healthy fisheries will continue to be a target for illegal fishing operators,” he said.

“Although this threat persists, AFMA and our partner agencies remain committed to apprehending and prosecuting illegal fishers.”