Australia Seizes & Destroys 5 Illegal Fishing Vessels In Northern Waters Operation

Australia has increased action against illegal fishing in its northern waters, with several foreign vessels intercepted and destroyed under an ongoing enforcement operation.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) said five foreign fishing boats have been intercepted and destroyed at sea since the start of Operation BROADSTAFF.

The vessels were detected across key areas, including near Albany Island, the Escape River on Cape York Peninsula, and waters off Trochus Island.

According to officials, two boats were intercepted on 20 February 2026 near Albany Island while they were allegedly involved in illegal fishing.

Another vessel was stopped on 3 March 2026 in the Escape River, followed by two more boats intercepted on 7 March near Trochus Island.

Authorities said seizing and disposing of vessels is an important part of their enforcement strategy and is meant to discourage illegal operators from entering Australian waters.

Maritime Border Command Acting Deputy Commander Brooke Dewar said the early phase of Operation BROADSTAFF has already shown results. She stated that officers are identifying foreign fishing vessels earlier and intercepting them before they can carry out illegal activity.

She added that vessels entering Australian waters unlawfully can be detected quickly, and action can be taken immediately, including seizure and disposal under Australian law.

Data released by ABF shows that since January 1, 2026, a total of 19 foreign fishing vessels have been intercepted in waters off northern Queensland and the Torres Strait. Out of these, nine vessels have been destroyed.

Operation BROADSTAFF involves coordinated efforts between multiple agencies using intelligence-led patrols, aerial surveillance, and on-water assets. Community reporting is also being used to track suspicious activities across the region.

Officials said some of the recent interceptions stopped boats before any illegal fishing took place, which shows early results from the operation.

Apart from destroying vessels, enforcement actions also include confiscating fishing equipment, educating crews, and escorting vessels out of Australian waters.

Reference: ABF