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Shark fin hidden in hull of illegal boats
Port Focus - Australia News
19th February, 2004
The sneaky tactics of illegal fishing operators in Australia’s northern waters have been highlighted with about 60 kg of shark fin found hidden in the bilge water of two illegal fishing boats.
Australian Fisheries Minister Senator Ian Macdonald said the catch was discovered by Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) officers deep within the hulls of both boats.
The boats were apprehended by Australian Customs vessel Botany Bay late on Saturday about 5nm off Gabba Island, after they were detected inside the Torres Strait Protected Zone by Coastwatch aircraft.
The fins were discovered after officers searched the vessel when it was in harbour on Thursday Island.
“Apprehensions like these prove how sneaky these fishers have become,” Senator Macdonald said.
“These recent apprehensions highlight the need to maintain a strong surveillance and enforcement presence to protect the natural resources in the AFZ.”
“Sharks are an important component of our marine ecosystem, and while it is difficult to know how much impact illegal fishers are having on their numbers in Australian waters, increased targeting of shark fin by illegal fishers greatly concerns me.”
“Shark fin has reached prices of up to $180 per kilogram, providing a considerable commercial incentive for illegal fishers.”
“Of the 15 boats apprehended this year in Australia’s northern waters, 14 were targeting shark for their fins.”
Senator Macdonald said the crews now faced charges under the Torres Strait Fisheries Act, which provided for fines and the forfeiture of their fishing boats
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