The Australian Border Force has taken decisive action against illegal fishing activities in the country’s waters. In recent weeks, dozens of illegal fishing vessels from Indonesia were seized and destroyed by burning, as reported by the Australian Border Force. Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, the Commander of Operation Sovereign Borders, revealed that over 200 boats were seized, 48 were sunk, and 1,000 fishermen were apprehended in two operations along the northern borders. This coordinated maritime security operation involved collaboration with the Indonesian government.
Cabinet Minister Jason Clare emphasized the seriousness of illegal fishing, stating that such actions are akin to stealing from Australia’s backyard. He supported the strategy of burning the confiscated boats to send a strong message to deter future illegal activities.
Operation GANNET, conducted between May 8 and 17, involved joint efforts by the Australian and Indonesian governments to combat illegal sea activities in the Timor Sea Area of Operations. This operation included resources from the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Republic of Indonesia, the Border Force’s Maritime Border Command, and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).
To further strengthen maritime security and prevent illegal fishing, the Albanese government allocated $1.7 million to support the Australian Fisheries Management Authority’s efforts in protecting the country’s northern borders. The government aims to keep illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) seafood out of Australia while supporting legitimate seafood suppliers.
In a separate statement, Rear Admiral Sonter reaffirmed the commitment of the Australian Border Force to safeguarding maritime borders from security threats, including irregular foreign fishing activities. Recent legal actions against 18 fishermen operating illegally in the northern border demonstrate the enforcement measures taken by authorities to combat illegal fishing practices.
The Australian authorities intercepted and apprehended three Indonesian fishing vessels engaged in illegal fishing in Australian waters, leading to charges, penalties, and the seizure of fishing equipment. The significant economic impact of IUU fishing globally, amounting to $23.5 billion annually, underscores the importance of addressing illegal fishing activities to protect marine stocks and support the commercial fishing industry.
Overall, the Australian government remains vigilant in countering illegal fishing activities and upholding maritime security to ensure the sustainability of marine resources and the protection of Australia’s coastal borders.
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