The vessels were located in Trepang Bay, Cobourg Marine Park, Northern Territory. Picture: supplied by ABF
Nine Indonesian fishermen, who pleaded guilty to illegally fishing in Australian waters, have been released on good behaviour bonds and returned to their country.
The nine all pleaded guilty when they appeared in Darwin Local Court on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 according to Australian Border Force (ABF).
The ABF were operating with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).
AFMA General Manager Fisheries Operations Justin Bathurst says the message to illegal fishers is clear.
“AFMA and our partner agencies are focused on detecting and apprehending illegal fishers. Those caught fishing illegally in Australian waters risk prosecution as well as seizure and destruction of their vessel.”
He claimed the court decisions will reinforce the fact that illegal fishing will not be tolerated.
ABF Commander Maritime Border Command Rear Admiral Brett Sonter reinforced the protection message, saying they are “committed to protecting our vulnerable marine resources and delicate ecosystems through the targeting of irregular foreign fishing in Australian waters”.
“Our message to illegal foreign fishers is simple: Australia does not tolerate illegal activity in our waters,” he says.
“We will intercept you, you will lose your catch, your equipment and possibly even your vessel.”
According to the Australian Border Force, on Wednesday, August 21, Australian authorities intercepted and seized an Indonesian vessel that was fishing illegally in Trepang Bay, Cobourg Marine Park, Northern Territory.
The crew were targeting highly prized sea cucumber (trepang).
A group of fishermen initially identified on a smaller tender vessel led Australian officials to another vessel hidden in the mangroves.
Some of the crew tried to flee into the mangroves but were eventually arrested, according to the ABF.
Authorities seized 170 kilograms of trepang, 170 kilograms of salt (to preserve catch) and fishing equipment from the vessel.
Both vessels were destroyed at-sea while the nine fishermen were charged under the Fisheries Management Act.
The master of the vessel was released on a $12,000 five-year good behaviour bond while the others were released on $8000 four-year bonds.
Illegal fishing in Australian waters can be reported to authorities by contacting CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 or [email protected].
