The Australian Border Force has intercepted a foreign vessel suspected of illegal fishing in the Torres Strait, reinforcing ongoing efforts to protect Far North Queensland waters and its communities.
On Monday (18 May 2026), ABFC Storm Bay intercepted the vessel near Prince of Wales Island.
Officers boarded the vessel and identified evidence of suspected fisheries offences, including 60kg of salt, used to preserve catch, and fishing equipment. The vessel was intercepted 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 vessel has been disposed of in accordance with Australian law and relevant environmental and biosecurity guidelines.
Acting Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Brooke Dewar said the interception demonstrated the importance of protecting the Torres Strait and supporting local communities.
"The Torres Strait is vital to the livelihood and culture of communities across Far North Queensland," A/g Deputy Commander Dewar said.
"Illegal fishing threatens those resources, and we are committed to working with local partners to protect these waters.
"Anyone attempting to fish unlawfully in the Torres Strait should expect to be detected and held to account."
The interception forms part of Operation BROADSTAFF, an ABF-led multi‑agency operation targeting illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait and Far North Queensland.
Since 1 January, the ABF has intercepted 23 foreign fishing vessels in waters off northern Queensland and the Torres Strait, 13 of which have now been destroyed.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report it to Border Watch.
