The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized a foreign vessel suspected of illegal fishing in the Torres Strait, as Operation BROADSTAFF continues its crackdown across the region.
On Friday (21 August 2026), ABF assets located the vessel and crew near Little Adolphus Island following reports from the community.
ABF officers boarded the boat and identified evidence of suspected fisheries offences, including 700kg of salt used to preserve catch, and fishing equipment.
The vessel was located before any marine life was caught.
Following consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), officers seized the vessel and apprehended the crew.
The crew will be transported to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA in relation to suspected offences against the Torres Strait Fisheries Act 1984.
The ABF is working with partner agencies to determine the appropriate management of the vessel, in accordance with Australian law and relevant environmental and biosecurity guidelines.
Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Natasha O’Farrell said the latest seizure demonstrated that Operation BROADSTAFF continued to deliver enforcement action in the Torres Strait.
“Operation BROADSTAFF remains active and this apprehension shows our officers continue to patrol, detect and act against suspected illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait,” Deputy Commander O’Farrell said.
“I want to thank the local community members who reported this vessel. Communities across the Torres Strait are vital eyes and ears and one part of a layered approach that includes aerial surveillance, patrol vessels, land patrols and intelligence operations.
“Illegal fishing activity can fluctuate, but our resolve does not. If you enter Australian waters to fish illegally, you risk losing your catch, your equipment and your vessel, and you may face prosecution.”
Operation BROADSTAFF is an ABF-led multi‑agency operation that was launched in February this year to combat illegal foreign fishing across Far Northern Queensland and the Torres Strait.
Since 1 January, the ABF has intercepted 24 foreign fishing vessels in waters off northern Queensland and the Torres Strait, 14 of which have now been destroyed.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity whiich may impact the security of Australia’s borders is urged to report to Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
