The ABF has safely interdicted two foreign fishing vessels and detained their crews over suspected illegal fishing in waters off the Western Australian coastline recently.
On 22 September 2026, a foreign fishing vessel was detected operating near Scott Reef off the Western Australia coast. Maritime Border Command coordinated a response by ABFC Cape Wessel to intercept the vessel.
The vessel was boarded and evidence of suspected fisheries offences was identified. The ABF seized 33kg of sea cucumber, 30kg of dried fish, 20 fresh reef fish, 5kg of shark fin and 300kg of salt used to preserve the catch.
Two days later (24 September 2026), ABFC Thaiyak located a second vessel and its crew operating near Cartier Island, north of Western Australia and inside the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone (AEEZ).
Officers identified evidence of suspected fisheries offences, including fishing equipment and four fresh sharks ranging from four to eight feet in length.
Following advice from AFMA, the crews from both vessels were detained and remain in custody pending transfer to Darwin, where AFMA will conduct further investigation for suspected offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991 (Cth).
The vessels and associated property were seized and will be managed in accordance with Australian law.
Quote attributable to Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Natasha O’Farrell
“Much of our work happens well beyond the horizon, but our officers are out there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, protecting Australia’s northern waters.
“The detection of two foreign fishing vessels in separate locations off the Western Australian coastline within days of each other demonstrates the strength of Australia’s surveillance and response capabilities. No matter how remote the location, we have the reach and resources to detect and disrupt illegal fishing activity.
“Those seeking to profit from illegal fishing risk losing far more than they gain. Catch, equipment and vessels can be seized, and crew may face prosecution. It is simply not worth the risk.”
Quote attributable to AFMA Acting General Manager Fisheries Operations Brendan Rayner
“AFMA continues to work with Maritime Border Command to interrupt illegal foreign fishing operators. While Australia’s rich marine resources will always attract the attention of illegal operators, those who seek to exploit them will be targeted, detained and prosecuted by Australian authorities.”
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia’s borders is urged to report it through Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
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