This is a joint media release between the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) and the Australian Border Force (ABF).
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) continues its partnership with the Australian Border Force (ABF) to conduct targeted patrol activities in sensitive coastal mangrove systems across Australia's northern waters.
Operation Pristis is an AFMA-led operation targeting foreign fishers seeking to illegally exploit Australia's natural resources. A particular focus is illegal operators targeting sea cucumber between the Kimberley region of Western Australia and Cape York Peninsula, Queensland.
From 25 March to 7 April 2026, AFMA and ABF Officers partnered with other patrol assets operating under ABF's Operation Broadstaff within the northern peninsula area of Cape York. Drawing upon the knowledge and cooperation of indigenous ranger groups and communities in the area, officers sought to detect, disrupt and deter illegal foreign fishing operations.
No illegal foreign fishing vessels were detected during this activity, reflecting both recent targeted enforcement efforts and adverse weather conditions (Cyclone Narelle).
Officers also removed harmful marine debris, including discarded nets and fish aggregation devices (used to attract marine life), which pose a threat to fragile reef and mangrove ecosystems
Since its inception in 2023, Operation Pristis has resulted in the interdiction and seizure of a large number of foreign fishing vessels, significant quantities of sea cucumber and fishing equipment.
AFMA's General Manager of Fisheries Operations, Mr Justin Bathurst, thanked all partner agencies for their ongoing support and commitment of resources to Operation Pristis.
"A visible enforcement presence on the water is vital to our whole of government effort to combat illegal foreign fishing in northern Australia," explained Mr Bathurst.
"Communities in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait rely on healthy sea cucumber populations to support a fishing industry which provides important economic opportunity."
"Australian authorities have zero tolerance for illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters, and we will continue to undertake a co-ordinated approach to target these illegal operators wherever they may be."
Acting Deputy Commander, Brooke Dewar, said the ABF is committed to protecting vulnerable marine resources and delicate ecosystems through targeted operations against illegal foreign fishing.
"Through sustained patrols and strong coordination with partner agencies, the ABF continues to detect, disrupt and deter illegal foreign fishing across Australia's northern waters," Acting Deputy Commander Dewar said.
"Illegal foreign fishers should be aware that together with our partners across government, the ABF maintains a persistent presence in northern Australia, with the capability to identify, intercept and remove vessels engaged in unlawful activity."
