Maritime Border Command has apprehended a foreign fishing vessel and its crew suspected of illegal fishing near Warrior Reef in the Torres Strait.
On 19 October 2026, HMAS Cape Naturaliste located the fibreglass banana boat crewed by PNG nationals which was found with two shark fins and fishing equipment on board.
After consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), the vessel and equipment were seized and the crew detained.
The crew were handed over to PNG authorities and their vessel will be safely destroyed in accordance with Australian law and relevant environmental and biosecurity requirements.
ABF Acting Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Nicole Papathanasiou said the important work to combat illegal foreign fishing and protect Australia’s marine environment involves multiple agencies working side-by-side every day of the year.
“We’re united in our purpose to detect and disrupt illegal foreign fishing activity in Australia’s northern waters,” A/g Deputy Commander Papathanasiou said.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia’s borders is urged to report to Border Watch online. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia’s border and the community.
