The start of the dry season has coincided with another apprehension of a foreign fishing vessel and its crew by the Australian Border Force (ABF) for alleged illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait.
On Saturday 2 May 2026, as part of Operation BROADSTAFF, ABF vessel Storm Bay intercepted a suspected foreign fishing vessel at Mount Adolphus Island in the Torres Strait.
Officers from ABFC Storm Bay boarded the vessel where evidence of fisheries offences were detected. The foreign fishing vessel (FFV) was intercepted before any marine life was caught.
Following consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), ABF officers determined that apprehension was the appropriate enforcement action.
The crew will be transferred to Darwin, where they will be subject to further investigation by AFMA for suspected offences against the Torres Strait Fisheries Act 1984.
The FFV will be disposed of in accordance with Australian law and relevant environmental and biosecurity guidelines.
Acting Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command Brooke Dewar said with the end of the wet season leading to more favourable marine conditions, it is possible more illegal foreign fishers may attempt the journey to illegally fish in Australian waters.
"Regardless of the conditions, the community can be assured we remain absolutely resolute in our response to illegal foreign fishing," Acting Deputy Commander Dewar said.
"Anyone who attempts to fish illegally in Australian waters will be detected, intercepted and held accountable."
Since 1 January 2026, the ABF has intercepted 22 illegal foreign fishing vessels and seized more than 6 tonnes of sea cucumber.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to report to Border Watch.
