The Australian Border Force (ABF) has intercepted two foreign vessels and their crews suspected of illegal fishing near Trochus Island, as Operation BROADSTAFF continues to net offenders targeting the Torres Strait and northern Queensland.
Launched in February 2026, Operation BROADSTAFF is a multi-agency operation designed to deter, detect and disrupt illegal foreign fishing across northern Queensland and the Torres Strait. These initial outcomes highlight the ABF's continued focus on protecting Australia's maritime resources, the environment and northern communities.
On Saturday 7 March 2026, an ABF fixed-wing aircraft on patrol first spotted the vessels, triggering an on-water response. ABF deployed a fast response boat and patrol boat ABFC Roebuck Bay and intercepted both vessels, prior to them fishing Australia's waters.
The vessels were boarded by ABF officers who identified a combined total of 1,650kg of salt used to preserve catch and fishing equipment. Following consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), ABF undertook the apprehension, seizing the fishing equipment and disposing of the salt. The crews were then taken to Darwin where they will be subject to further investigation by AFMA for suspected offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991.The vessels will be safely disposed of at sea in accordance with Australian law.
Local knowledge remains essential in the Torres Strait, with community members providing vital eyes and ears across their Sea Country, as ABF officers continue engaging with local fishers and residents to strengthen two‑way communication and shared awareness of any suspicious maritime activity.
Maritime Border Command Acting Deputy Commander Brooke Dewar said the interceptions demonstrated the strong and ongoing impact of the operation.
"Our message is simple: if you enter Australian waters to steal our marine resources, we will find you and we will act," A/g Deputy Commander Dewar said.
"The coordination between our surveillance aircraft, patrol vessels and local communities means illegal fishers have nowhere to hide."
In the first 30 days of Operation BROADSTAFF, the ABF has intercepted seven illegal foreign fishing vessels and seized more than 1.9 tonnes of sea cucumber and 3.5 tonnes of salt. This brings the total number of foreign fishing vessels intercepted in the region to 18 since the beginning of 2026.
Every report of suspected illegal fishing is taken seriously and anyone with information about suspicious activity is urged to contact Border Watch.
By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.
